Keith Olbermann is returning to his Countdown podcast after months away following a medical issue. The iHeartMedia podcast host has only released two episodes since the end of April.
What We Know: Olbermann has largely been absent from Countdown since late April, when he began dealing with an unspecified medical issue. Since then, he’s hosted only two episodes of the podcast. Olbermann has suggested that the issue is heart-related, but he hasn’t provided more specific details about his condition. Now, he says doctors have cleared him to return to the podcast. The next episode is scheduled for September 10, according to Olbermann.
What They Said: “The Countdown podcast returns Wednesday night, Thursday morning, September 10th. The doctors have approved. Why am I waiting another week? Because I’m going to milk my illness for all it’s worth.” -Keith Olbermann
What Remains Unclear: Olbermann hasn’t disclosed the specific nature of his medical issue or explained what treatment he received. Additionally, it remains unclear whether his return will mark a full resumption of the podcast’s previous schedule. He also hasn’t indicated whether his health will affect his workload moving forward.
What It Means: Olbermann’s return gives Countdown listeners a clear indication that his extended absence is nearing its end. Meanwhile, his decision to wait another week after receiving medical approval suggests he intends to make his return on his own terms. For now, listeners will have to wait until September 10 to hear Olbermann back behind the microphone.
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Garrett Searight is Barrett Media’s News Editor, which includes writing daily news stories, features, and opinion columns. He joined Barrett Media in 2022 after a decade leading several radio brands in several formats, as well as a 5-year stint working in local television. In addition to his work with Barrett Media, he is a radio and TV play-by-play broadcaster. Reach out to him at Garrett@BarrettMedia.com.