Howard Stern's SiriusXM Future Uncertain as Contract Expires
As his five-year, $500 million contract approaches its conclusion, Howard Stern's future with SiriusXM hangs in the balance. The iconic radio personality, now 71, is weighing his options amid ongoing negotiations.
Stern is reportedly open to a short-term deal if the financial terms align with his expectations. However, sources indicate he is also contemplating a complete exit from SiriusXM. “He may do a 1-2 year contract if they can meet him where he wants financially. He doesn’t want to pull the plug on his employees like this,” one insider revealed.
During his summer break, Stern has been vocal about retirement considerations. “Maybe I should retire,” he has expressed, hinting at a potential shift in his career trajectory.
Frustration has surfaced regarding SiriusXM's focus on rival radio host Andy Cohen, which has reportedly added to Stern's discontent. Another source mentioned that he is seriously considering “parting ways” with the network.
Stern launched the second phase of “The Howard Stern Show” on SiriusXM in 2006 and has since become a fixture in the broadcasting landscape. His reputation has seen significant fluctuations; once hailed as a groundbreaking interviewer, he now faces criticism for being out of touch.
In recent years, Stern has struggled to define his public persona, oscillating between claims of being “woke” while conducting interviews with high-profile figures like former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris, despite his earlier Republican leanings.
Listener engagement has also dipped dramatically. Once attracting around 20 million daily listeners, recent figures show his audience has dwindled to approximately 125,000. Additionally, Stern has shifted to recording from home rather than studios, citing ongoing concerns about COVID-19.
