SiriusXM is optimistic about renewing its contract with Howard Stern, despite ongoing speculation surrounding the future of the iconic radio host’s show.
Stern’s current deal with the satellite radio company, which he has been with for nearly two decades, expires at the end of 2025. Rumors that Stern had been “fired” emerged after his scheduled September 2 appearance to discuss the contract was postponed, fueling uncertainty among fans. However, SiriusXM executives have confirmed that negotiations are continuing.
Scott Greenstein, SiriusXM’s chief content officer and president, addressed the situation during the Bank of America 2025 Media, Communications & Entertainment Conference. He emphasized that extended negotiation periods are common with talent of Stern’s stature, describing the host as “as important a single piece of content” the company has had, calling him “the best interviewer out there, period, bar none.” Greenstein added, “We’d love [for Stern] to stay. It certainly has to make sense, but we feel pretty good that we’ve done this before, and we’ll see where it goes.”
Jennifer Witz, SiriusXM’s CEO, echoed this sentiment, highlighting Stern’s core role on the platform for over 20 years. “I’m confident we’ll get to the right place,” she said, indicating optimism that a renewal will be reached.
Stern first joined Sirius in 2004, prior to its merger with XM, attracted by the opportunity to broadcast free of FCC oversight after facing fines on terrestrial radio. “The Howard Stern Show” launched on SiriusXM in January 2006, and his most recent five-year contract was signed in 2020.
Amid the contract talks, SiriusXM continues to expand its content portfolio, recently signing sports commentator Stephen A. Smith to two shows and securing exclusive deals with popular podcasters like Alex Cooper of “Call Her Daddy.” Greenstein explained that the company evaluates talent deals through a mix of metrics including hours listened, advertising revenue, social media impact, and overall publicity, all of which Stern delivers in abundance.
Responding to cancellation rumors, Greenstein reassured fans that such speculation is normal during contract negotiations with high-profile talent. He described the recent retirement rumors as “a desperate hoax,” suggesting they were fabricated to generate buzz ahead of Stern’s anticipated return.
Stern, 71, remains a dominant figure in radio, known for his celebrity interviews and eight consecutive Billboard Nationally Syndicated Air Personality of the Year awards. “The Howard Stern Show” continues to air weekdays at 7 a.m. EST on SiriusXM.
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