Was Olbermann's Exit "Mutual" in the Same Way Executions are "Mutual"?
First, a caveat...
I have no special knowledge here at my kitchen table in a Baltimore suburb about the circumstances surrounding Keith Olbermann's sudden and startling departure from MSNBC last night. I can only add my conjecture, based on my own experiences as a member of "the media", as to what might have — and in my opinion, PROBABLY happened.
That being said.
To say that Olbermann's departure from MSNBC was a "mutual agreement" strikes me as being "mutual" in the same sense that executions are "mutual." The state agrees to put the needle in your arm, the prisoner agrees to be strapped to the gurney, have the needle inserted, and die without a great fuss.
My reasons for coming to this conclusion? Been there. Done that.
In nearly 30 years of radio broadcasting, I have only been fired a few times. I am luckier than most in that business — especially because I am out of it. But the typical "mutually-agreed-upon" departure works like this...
It's Friday. You've just wrapped up your show and are tying up loose ends to get ready for the weekend. The program director pops his/her head into the bullpen and tells you the station's General Manager wants a word with you. You and the program director walk, together, to the GM's door. You enter first. The PD shuts the door. Everyone sits.
The GM has a grim but friendly look on his/her face. And it begins.
"Bill, we couldn't be happier with the job you've been doing for us, but we've decided to take the station in a different direction. So we're going to have to let you go. Rest assured this doesn't reflect on your performance, you did a wonderful job. But you just don't figure into our future plans."
As the condemned man, you try to ask why... to plead your case... but the GM cuts you off.
"Bill, Bill, Bill... the decision's been made. Please turn over your office keys to the program director and thank you for your service."
You give your keys to the PD, he/she shakes your hand and wishes you good luck. The PD opens the office door and you see the cardboard box that the station secretary has filled with your personal effects while you were chatting with the GM. As the PD marches you to the door, you hear the station loudspeaker airing the promo about the show that will be replacing you starting Monday in your time slot. The door shuts behind you and the cold wind blows, chilling your skin.
Continued on the next page
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