Howard Stern has just announced a three-year extension with SiriusXM, saying he has “figured out a way to have it all.”
Extension Announcement
During a live broadcast on Tuesday, the 71-year-old star declared, “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 said on air. He added that the new arrangement would give him a “more flexible schedule,” and that he was “excited about it because you know what. I do still love radio.”
Back to the Airwaves
Stern made the announcement on the last show of the year, promising listeners he would return live on January 5. The move marks a continuation of his long-standing presence on SiriusXM after his initial debut in 2006.
SiriusXM and the 2006 Move
Howard joined what was then Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. in 2006, a decision that helped cement his status as one of the highest-paid personalities in broadcasting. The partnership proved to be a game-changer for both the company and the nascent satellite radio industry, offering Stern a lucrative payday and the freedom from censorship that had plagued his earlier career.
Recent Highlights
In recent months, Stern has hosted intimate conversations with Lady Gaga and Bruce Springsteen, keeping his show fresh and engaging. Earlier in August, he attempted to convince listeners he had left by presenting Andy Cohen as a faux successor, a stunt that ended in a clear rejection of the idea.
Robin Quivers and the Decision
Before committing to the extension, Stern checked in with his long-time co-host, Robin Quivers, to ensure she was “up for it.” He explained, “If Robin wasn’t up for it, then I wasn’t going to do it,” he said. The confirmation of Quivers’ support helped solidify the decision.
Subscriber Numbers and Competition
SiriusXM’s subscriber base has been slowly contracting. The company reported 33 million paid subscribers in the third quarter of 2025, a drop of about 100 000 from the previous year. The platform faces a saturated satellite market and competition from free, ad-supported services such as Spotify.
Legacy and Controversies
Stern rose to national fame in the 1980s after a 20-year stint at WXRK in New York. At its peak, “The Howard Stern Show” was syndicated in 60 markets and drew more than 20 million listeners. He was lured to satellite radio by a lucrative payday and a lack of censorship, following bruising indecency battles with the Federal Communications Commission and wary radio executives. His past on-air bits have included parading strippers through his New York studio and persuading the band then known as The Dixie Chicks to reveal intimate details about their sex lives.
Key Takeaways
- Howard Stern will stay on SiriusXM for another three years, citing a flexible schedule and continued love for radio.
- The extension was confirmed after a conversation with co-host Robin Quivers.
- SiriusXM’s paid subscriber count fell to 33 million in Q3 2025, amid competition from saturated satellite offerings and free ad-supported platforms.
Howard Stern’s decision to extend his contract underscores his enduring appeal and the evolving landscape of radio entertainment. The move promises fans more of the unpredictable banter and candid interviews that have defined his career for decades.
