Howard Stern Stuns Fans with SiriusXM Prank, Confirms Return

Lead Howard Stern surprised listeners Monday by staging an on-air gag that Andy Cohen had taken over his SiriusXM channel, then returned 20 minutes later to confirm he’s renewed his contract and remains on air today in New York.

Nut Graf The prank addressed swirling rumors that Stern’s five-year, $500 million deal was expiring and his show might end, underscoring both his central role at SiriusXM and the network’s reliance on his long-running program.

Prank Sparks Panic

• Andy Cohen opened Stern’s 7 a.m. ET slot, claiming the channel had been rebranded “Andy 100” and apologizing for an improvised handoff.
• Media outlets quickly reported a split, fueling fan anxiety and widespread speculation.

Stern Sets the Record Straight Howard Stern then reclaimed the mic, opening with his signature “Hey now,” and thanked Cohen for participating in the bit. He explained his absence last week was due to a severe cold that cost him his voice, not contract disputes or firing. “I was getting frustrated with everyone messaging me, asking if I was okay because I’d been let go,” he said.

Contract Renewal Confirmed After weeks of promos and industry chatter, SiriusXM officially inked a new extension with Stern on Monday. While terms were not disclosed, insiders indicate the deal continues his lucrative arrangement and secures his presence on the platform for the foreseeable future.

Industry Impact

• Stern’s initial move to satellite radio in 2006 transformed SiriusXM into a premium destination, driving millions of subscriptions.
• SiriusXM faces subscriber declines-33 million paid users in Q2 2025, down 100,000 year-over-year-highlighting its need to retain marquee talent amid market fragmentation.

Looking Ahead With the contract renewed, Stern plans to resume his three-day-a-week schedule and will likely incorporate reflections on media rumors into upcoming interviews, reinforcing his reputation as radio’s “King of All Media.”