Howard Stern’s new SiriusXM deal: How he plans to ‘have it all’

Howard Stern Inks Three-Year Extension with SiriusXM, Promises More Flexible Schedule

Broadcasting icon Howard Stern announced Tuesday that he has signed a three-year contract extension with SiriusXM, ending months of speculation about his future with the satellite radio giant.

“I am happy to announce that I have figured out a way to have it all. More free time and continuing to be on the radio. Yes, we are coming back for three years,” Stern told listeners during his final broadcast of 2023. The 71-year-old radio personality emphasized that the new agreement includes a “more flexible schedule,” though specific details of the arrangement weren’t disclosed.

“I’m excited about it because you know what? I do still love radio,” Stern added, confirming that his longtime co-host Robin Quivers will also remain with the show. “If Robin wasn’t up for it, then I wasn’t going to do it,” he noted.

The announcement comes after Stern playfully misled his audience in August when he brought on Bravo host Andy Cohen as a pretend replacement, suggesting he was leaving the platform. Representatives have confirmed that this time, the extension is genuine.

Stern’s relationship with SiriusXM dates back to 2006 when he made his groundbreaking move from terrestrial radio to what was then Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. The bold transition transformed both Stern’s career and the satellite radio industry itself. Free from the FCC regulations that had previously resulted in numerous fines and censorship battles, Stern found a new home where his uncensored style could flourish.

The shock jock’s original five-year, $500 million deal with Sirius was one of the most lucrative in broadcasting history, making him among the highest-paid personalities in media. While terms of the new extension weren’t revealed, industry analysts expect it maintains Stern’s position as one of radio’s top earners.

Stern’s current iteration of his show has evolved significantly from his earlier days of provocative stunts involving strippers in his New York studio or coaxing intimate revelations from celebrities like The Chicks (formerly known as The Dixie Chicks). Recent years have seen Stern develop a reputation for in-depth, revealing conversations with A-list guests, including recent notable interviews with Lady Gaga and Bruce Springsteen.

The extension comes at a crucial time for SiriusXM, which reported 33 million paid subscribers in the third quarter of 2023—approximately 100,000 fewer than the same period last year. The company faces increasing challenges from a saturated satellite market and growing competition from free, ad-supported streaming platforms like Spotify, which has invested heavily in exclusive podcast content.

Stern’s decision to stay provides much-needed stability for SiriusXM as it navigates these competitive pressures. His show remains one of the service’s most significant subscriber draws, with dedicated listeners who follow him across platforms.

Before joining satellite radio, Stern built his reputation during a 20-year stint at WXRK in New York. At its height, his terrestrial radio show was syndicated across 60 markets nationwide, attracting over 20 million listeners. His battles with the FCC over indecency violations became legendary in broadcasting circles and ultimately contributed to his decision to move to satellite radio.

Stern’s fans can expect his return to the airwaves on January 5, when his show resumes live broadcasts following the holiday break. The extension ensures “The Howard Stern Show” will remain a cornerstone of SiriusXM’s programming through at least 2026, when Stern will be 74 years old.