Key Points

Howard Stern's legendary radio show may be ending as his $500 million SiriusXM contract nears expiration. Sources say he’s open to a short-term renewal but is seriously considering retirement. Stern is reportedly unhappy with SiriusXM's growing focus on Andy Cohen-style programming. The show, which began in the 1980s, remains one of the most influential in broadcasting history.

Key Points: Howard Stern Show May End as SiriusXM Contract Nears Expiry

  • Stern open to short-term renewal if financial terms are met
  • SiriusXM's shift toward Andy Cohen content frustrates Stern
  • The show has been a radio staple since the 1980s
  • Stern's archives remain with SiriusXM until at least 2027
2 min read

'The Howard Stern Show' likely to end its iconic decades-long run as contract nears expiry

Howard Stern's iconic radio show could conclude as his $500M SiriusXM deal expires, with retirement and financial terms under discussion.

"He may do a 1-2 year contract if they can meet him where he wants financially. – Source close to Howard Stern"

Los Angeles, August 6

The long-running and iconic 'The Howard Stern Show' may be nearing its end, with the 71-year-old host's five-year, USD 500 million contract with SiriusXM approaching expiry, as per a report by the New York Post.

Stern's future with the satellite radio giant remains uncertain. Sources close to the matter suggest that while he is open to a short-term renewal, it would depend on the financial terms. "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," a source close to the development revealed.

Another source added that the radio veteran has been contemplating retirement more seriously this year. "He is off in the summer, but this year has been saying 'maybe I should retire," the source said.

Reportedly, Stern is also unhappy with SiriusXM's growing focus on competing with fellow radio personality Andy Cohen, leading to his big decision to depart.

It was back in the 1980s when Stern rose to fame with the launch of 'The Howard Stern Show'. After a decades-long run with the first edition, he eventually moved over to SiriusXM in 2006 and has been a staple ever since.

Back in 2020, Stern extended his radio deal with the company for another five years, with SiriusXM also holding the rights to his audio and video archives for an additional seven years, reported Variety.

Reflecting on his move to SiriusXM, Stern had said, "Fifteen years ago, I joined SiriusXM, a fledgling group of broadcasters. I had been in a toxic relationship with terrestrial radio. And no matter how well I treated the medium, no matter how successful I made them, they abused me."

Over the years, the show has hosted numerous high-profile guests from the worlds of entertainment, sports, music, and comedy, building a legacy as one of the most influential radio shows in American broadcasting history.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Shreya B
Honestly never understood his appeal. Too vulgar for Indian sensibilities. Our RJs like Neelesh Mishra tell stories with much more depth and cultural relevance.
A
Arjun K
$500 million contract?! That's more than entire Indian FM radio industry's revenue! Shows the value of original content. Maybe our radio channels should learn instead of just playing Bollywood songs on loop.
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Priya S
His interview with PM Modi in 2020 was actually quite respectful and insightful. Proved he could adapt his style when needed. Will miss his unique voice in American media landscape.
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Vikram M
SiriusXM should let him go gracefully. At 71, he's earned his retirement. Reminds me of when Ameen Sayani retired - legends know when to exit stage left. Respect!
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David E
As an expat in Mumbai, I'll miss listening to his show during my commute. His comedy bits about Indian call centers were actually quite funny and not mean-spirited. Hope he does a farewell tour!

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