Amid swirling rumors about the potential end of his SiriusXM show, Howard Stern appears to be invigorated, eager to demonstrate his prowess as a leading interviewer. Insiders reveal that the radio legend is adopting a “bring it on” mentality.
With his $500 million contract nearing its expiration, the self-proclaimed “King of All Media” is contemplating a transition to video streaming platforms. “If he signs with Sirius again or anywhere else, it will be his last contract,” a source disclosed, emphasizing Stern’s determination to control his career trajectory.
Should SiriusXM choose not to renew, Stern has a backup plan in mind. Speculation suggests that he may pivot to platforms like Netflix or HBO Max, following the success of his two-hour interview with Bruce Springsteen aired by HBO last year.
The insider noted that Stern, now 71, is feeling “pumped up” by the uncertainty surrounding his next steps. “Howard likes what he likes and though he could be bitter on how things are going, it isn’t anything new to him,” the source explained. “He isn’t blaming his age; he has adapted to the changing landscape.”
Concern for his team remains a priority for Stern as he navigates these changes. His audience has dwindled significantly from a peak of 20 million to approximately 125,000 daily listeners, raising questions about the future of his show.
In the background, some writers for Stern’s show have reportedly been holding back their best material, anticipating the end of the program. “Most of us have been coasting at work the last year,” one longtime staffer admitted, reflecting a sense of resignation regarding Stern’s retirement prospects.
Critics have also pointed out that Stern’s political endorsements, particularly his support for Hillary Clinton against Donald Trump in 2015, have led to accusations of him being “woke.” Yet, according to sources close to him, this uncertainty is precisely what energizes Stern. “All this unknown is music to Howard’s ears,” they asserted. “He thrives in this element of the unknown.”
