Howard Stern cancels SiriusXM return after summer break amid contract issues and family struggles

Howard Stern will not return to SiriusXM this week as planned, citing contract talks and his mother’s ill health.

Howard Stern will not be returning to his SiriusXM programme this week as previously promised, following his summer hiatus.

The 71-year-old broadcaster announced his decision in an email to his 95 employees on Labour Day evening. According to reports, the move came “out of the blue” but was carefully written so as not to cause panic among staff.

Sources tell Daily Mail Stern’s decision is linked to frustrations over a new contract he has been negotiating with SiriusXM.

His current five-year, $500 million deal is set to expire at the end of 2025, potentially concluding his two-decade run on the satellite station, which began in 2006.

Family matters have also weighed heavily on the Queens-born radio host. Stern has spoken on air about the declining health of his mother, Ray Schiffman Stern, who turns 98 in October.

Despite the speculation, SiriusXM president Scott Greenstein has previously said Stern’s departure will ultimately be his own choice.

For now, the veteran host appears focused on family and private negotiations rather than a public comeback.