Howard Stern Secures Three-Year SiriusXM Deal Amid Flexibility Shift

Howard Stern has agreed to a new three-year contract with SiriusXM, resolving months of uncertainty about his future with the satellite radio network after his current deal expired at year-end.

Stern announced the renewal on Tuesday morning, revealing it grants him greater flexibility in scheduling while ensuring continued programming. “I’m happy to announce that I’ve figured out a way to have it all,” he stated on air. “More free time, and continuing to be on the radio.”

The deal follows speculation that Stern’s show might conclude due to his reduced on-air schedule, which includes seasonal absences and fewer studio appearances in New York City. During a brief interruption on Tuesday, listeners were greeted by Andy Cohen, who described the moment as “surreal” and suggested Stern had been temporarily replaced.

After approximately 15 minutes, Stern resumed hosting, clarifying, “That was all masterminded by me.”

Terms of the agreement remain undisclosed, though Stern emphasized it spans three years and allows for more flexible appearances. His previous SiriusXM contract, a five-year deal valued at $100 million annually, preceded his move to the network in 2006 after leaving terrestrial radio.

SiriusXM has been pursuing significant cost reductions, targeting $200 million in annual savings through layoffs and operational adjustments. The company’s subscriber base has declined from approximately 34 million in 2020 to about 33 million by early 2025.

Despite financial pressures, SiriusXM executives have expressed strong commitment to retaining Stern. Jennifer Witz, the company’s chief executive, stated in October that “He has a lot of fans on the platform,” and emphasized their focus on aligning with listener preferences.

Stern echoed this sentiment during his announcement: “I love this company. I truly do. I feel very loyal to this company. They did want me to come back, and they said, ‘Whatever you want to do, we’ll do for you.’”