Veteran radio host Howard Stern has triggered a fierce online backlash just hours after announcing a new three-year contract with SiriusXM, with critics questioning whether anyone still listens to the self-proclaimed 'King of All Media'.
Deal Announced Amid Retirement Speculation
During his show on Tuesday morning, the 71-year-old broadcaster revealed he had signed a three-year contract extension with the satellite radio giant, putting months of intense retirement speculation to rest. The rumours had been fuelled earlier this year when Stern pulled a prank, leading fans to believe his long-running programme was facing the axe.
'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,' Stern told his audience. He confirmed, 'Yes, we are coming back for three years.' This marks his third contract renewal with SiriusXM, following major deals in 2010 and a reported five-year, $500 million agreement in 2020.
A Wave of Social Media Criticism
The announcement was met with a deluge of criticism across social media platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter). Thousands of users voiced their frustration, with many labelling Stern a 'has-been' who should have retired years ago.
One scathing comment read: 'lol - the only person excited about this news is his wife (who also can have it all without Stern around too much).' Another added, 'Pity Sirius, what a waste of money, he is a has been!!!!!' Others questioned his audience size, with one user posting: 'Howard Stern signs a three year deal. Who the hell is listening to this guy.'
Further criticism focused on his work schedule and perceived relevance. 'Hard to believe the size of his contracts given the amount of time he isn't working annually. Sirius have backed themselves into a corner again,' one user stated. Another commented on show quality, saying, 'It was unlistenable the last time I tuned in. Reports regarding all time low ratings seemed to contradict' Stern's claim that the show is better than ever.
New Contract Offers 'Flexibility'
While the financial terms of the new deal remain undisclosed, Stern indicated it would provide 'more flexibility,' likely meaning fewer on-air appearances. He confessed he only learned the final decision this past weekend.
'I'm old as f***. I'm not supposed to be working... I need me time. I've never had me time,' Stern explained, highlighting his desire for a better work-life balance. He gave a loose outline of the next three years, suggesting he would take summers off and make limited visits to SiriusXM’s New York studios.
Despite the controversy, Stern remains passionate about radio. 'I still do love being on the radio. I think the show is better than ever,' he insisted. His move to Sirius in 2006 was a landmark moment, making him one of broadcasting's highest-paid personalities and helping to transform the satellite radio industry. At its peak, his show reached 60 markets and attracted over 20 million listeners.
The renewal comes as SiriusXM faces its own challenges, including a slowly contracting subscriber base. The company reported 33 million paid subscribers in Q2 2025, a net loss from the previous quarter and the same period in 2024, as it battles a saturated market and competition from free, ad-supported platforms like Spotify.
