Howard Stern Cancels SiriusXM Return Amid Contract Dispute

Howard Stern's much-anticipated return to his SiriusXM show, originally scheduled for September 2, was postponed to September 8 amid ongoing contract negotiations and personal challenges. Stern, whose current $500 million, five-year contract with SiriusXM expires at the end of 2025, sent a surprise email to his 95 employees canceling the initial comeback date, citing frustrations over the new contract. The radio host has also been dealing with the declining health of his mother, Ray Schiffman Stern, who will turn 98 in October, adding to his personal strain. Although Stern had promised to address rumors about his show's future and possible cancellation, the last-minute postponement has fueled speculation about his future with the satellite radio company. His SiriusXM show has seen a significant drop in listenership compared to his terrestrial radio show's peak audience. Stern's management and SiriusXM have not publicly commented on the situation.