Sirius XM to Cancel Howard Stern Show After 20-Year Run

Howard Stern Show on Sirius XM is set to be canceled after 20 years, with Sirius reportedly unwilling to meet Stern's demands for a new contract. The show's library may be negotiated instead. Stern's contract is set to expire in the fall.

The future of the Howard Stern Show on Sirius XM is uncertain as the legendary radio personality's five-year, $500 million contract is set to expire in the fall. Reports suggest that SiriusXM may not renew the contract, potentially leading to the show's cancellation after a 20-year run on the network [1].

According to an unnamed insider, SiriusXM is planning to make Stern an offer but does not expect it to be high enough for him to accept. The insider also indicated that the broadcasting corporation may not be able to continue paying Stern's salary, citing tightening purse strings as a reason [1]. The decision to end the collaboration comes as a result of the company's recent cancellation of Stephen Colbert's "The Late Show," with the unnamed insider comparing the move to CBS' decision [1].

Another insider hinted that Stern's political beliefs, particularly his outspoken disdain of former President Donald Trump, may be a factor in SiriusXM's decision not to renew the contract. Stern's net worth is estimated at $650 million, and he has grown tired of SiriusXM's reliance on radio icon Andy Cohen, causing him to debate parting ways with the company [1].

Despite the rumors, SiriusXM president and chief content officer Scott Greenstein has not heard from Stern about wanting to leave and hopes that Stern continues forever. Greenstein stated that Stern's library of content will continue to be available on the network for several years, as part of the five-year extension deal signed in 2020 [2].

The cancellation of the Howard Stern Show could have significant financial implications for SiriusXM. Analyst Brian Russo estimated that 15% of Stern's listeners could cancel their subscriptions if the show were to be canceled, potentially leading to a loss of 2.7 million subscribers [2].

As Stern's contract comes to an end, he is likely to be focusing on his lavish properties. His Palm Beach, FL, mansion, Hamptons dwelling, and Manhattan abode are among the most impressive properties in his portfolio. The Palm Beach mansion alone cost $52 million and was renovated for an additional $13 million [1].

In conclusion, the future of the Howard Stern Show on Sirius XM is uncertain, with reports suggesting that the show may be canceled due to financial constraints and Stern's political beliefs. The show's library may be negotiated instead, with SiriusXM hoping to retain Stern's content for several years.

References:
[1] https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/howard-stern-used-enormous-500-192845362.html
[2] https://people.com/the-howard-stern-show-potential-cancellation-what-to-know-11785764