Howard Stern Cancelled? SiriusXM Future in Doubt Amid Contract End and Metallica Surprise

Despite swirling rumors that Howard Stern is cancelled on SiriusXM, the shock jock went live on August 6, 2025, with a surprise announcement that had little to do with his show’s fate. Instead, he joined Metallica’s Lars Ulrich to debut a new dedicated SiriusXM channel, “Maximum Metallica,” launching August 29. Still, behind the scenes, it appears Stern’s two-decade partnership with SiriusXM may be drawing to a close.

According to insiders, SiriusXM may not renew Stern’s contract due to mounting costs and shifting media dynamics. While Stern did not confirm any cancellation on-air, the clues suggest a significant change could be imminent.

Is Howard Stern Cancelled on SiriusXM?

Howard Stern has not officially announced the cancellation of his iconic show, but mounting reports indicate his current five-year contract with SiriusXM, worth an estimated $500 million, will expire in fall 2025. Industry insiders suggest the satellite radio giant is unlikely to match Stern’s financial expectations for renewal.

Sources familiar with the matter state that while SiriusXM plans to make a formal offer, they do not anticipate Stern accepting it. The cost-to-value ratio has reportedly shifted, with one insider commenting, “It’s no longer worth the investment.”

Stern’s recent live broadcast, promoted via his Instagram account as a surprise appearance, did not address cancellation rumors. Instead, the focus was on promoting Metallica’s new SiriusXM Channel 42. Stern did, however, confirm he will return live on air starting September 2.

Why SiriusXM May Cut Ties with Howard Stern

Several factors contribute to the growing likelihood of Stern’s departure:

• Cost vs. Value: Stern’s estimated annual salary exceeds $100 million. With changing listener habits, SiriusXM may see diminishing returns.

• Audience Decline: While Stern dominated radio ratings during his FM years, his SiriusXM audience has reportedly declined significantly.

• Political Stance: Stern has remained outspoken on political issues, which some insiders claim may not align with SiriusXM’s current direction.

• Media Budget Cuts: Across the industry, companies are tightening budgets, making it difficult to justify high-profile, high-cost contracts.

These reasons have collectively pushed SiriusXM toward re-evaluating their long-standing partnership with Stern. Although a final decision hasn’t been made public, internal sentiment seems to suggest a split is probable.

What Did Stern Announce Instead?

On August 6, Howard Stern made a “special announcement” during his summer break—not about his own future, but rather a collaborative reveal with Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich.

The news? Metallica is launching their own SiriusXM channel, “Maximum Metallica,” on Channel 42, going live August 29. The channel will feature the band’s biggest hits, rare recordings, interviews, and exclusive content for diehard fans.

Stern praised Metallica and emphasized the scale of the achievement, noting how far the band has come since their early touring days. The announcement served more as a celebration of Metallica’s legacy than a discussion of Stern’s future.

What’s Next for Howard Stern?

While Howard Stern did not address cancellation rumors directly, he assured fans that he would return on September 2, following his annual summer hiatus. This statement hints that Stern will finish out his contract, at the very least.

Beyond that, several potential scenarios are in play:

• Short-Term Contract Extension: Stern may negotiate a reduced or transitional agreement to wrap up his show on his own terms.

• Retirement: At 71, Stern may choose to step away from broadcasting entirely, potentially announcing retirement by the end of the year.

• Archival Licensing: SiriusXM may retain broadcast rights to Stern’s vast audio library even if no new episodes are produced.

• Independent Platform: There’s speculation that Stern could explore podcasting or digital streaming platforms, though nothing is confirmed.

Fans are encouraged to stay tuned to Howard 100 and his official channels for updates.

Howard Stern’s Legacy: A Radio Revolution

Howard Stern began his radio journey in the 1970s at Boston University. From Hartford to Washington D.C. to New York, Stern carved out his niche as the original “shock jock.” In 1985, he joined WXRK-FM in New York, where he stayed until 2005, when he made the bold leap to SiriusXM.

Since then, Stern has redefined satellite radio, leading one of the most lucrative media contracts in history. Alongside his radio success, he has authored best-selling books, starred in the autobiographical film Private Parts, and judged America’s Got Talent for three seasons.

Whether or not his show continues, Stern’s impact on media is undeniable.

As rumors around “Howard Stern cancelled” continue to gain traction, one thing remains certain—Stern isn’t going quietly. While SiriusXM may soon close this chapter, the radio legend appears to be writing his own ending.

FAQs You Must Know

Q: Is Howard Stern cancelled on SiriusXM?
A: Not officially. While reports suggest SiriusXM may not renew his contract, Stern has not confirmed any cancellation and is set to return September 2.

Q: When does Howard Stern’s current SiriusXM contract expire?
A: His contract is set to expire in fall 2025, ending a five-year deal reportedly worth around $500 million.

Q: What was Howard Stern’s August 6 announcement?
A: Stern went live with Metallica’s Lars Ulrich to announce a new SiriusXM channel, “Maximum Metallica,” launching August 29 on Channel 42.

Q: Why would SiriusXM end its partnership with Stern?
A: Rising costs, audience decline, and internal budget concerns are leading factors. Political tensions may also play a role.

Q: Will Stern retire after this contract ends?
A: It’s possible. While no formal retirement has been announced, insiders suggest Stern may opt not to renew or could pursue other media formats.