Why Did Howard Stern Leave SiriusXM After Nearly 20 Years?

Howard Stern has left SiriusXM after nearly two decades. The shocking news came Monday when Stern, 71, did not appear on his usual show. Andy Cohen stepped in live and told listeners it was not the planned handoff.

The company confirmed the exit. It ends a partnership that began in 2006. Stern was the star who gave satellite radio a huge boost. His departure leaves SiriusXM facing a tough road ahead.

SiriusXM Without Its Biggest Star

Howard Stern was the face of SiriusXM. His move from FM radio nearly 20 years ago helped transform the company. He became one of the highest-paid broadcasters in the world. According to the Associated Press, his shows drew millions and defined the brand.

SiriusXM now has about 33 million subscribers. But that number is shrinking. The company lost 68,000 subscribers in the second quarter of 2025. It also had 100,000 fewer than the same time in 2024.

Competition is growing. Free services like Spotify are pulling users away. SiriusXM has tried to add big names. Trevor Noah, Kevin Hart, and Conan O’Brien all have shows. But none carried the same weight as Stern.

A Career That Changed Radio

Howard Stern first rose to fame in the 1980s. His New York show became a national hit. At one point, more than 20 million people tuned in. He built a career as the “King of All Media.”

His move to Sirius gave him freedom from broadcast rules. He signed huge contracts in 2010 and again in 2020. Forbes reported his last deal was worth $500 million over five years.

Beyond radio, Stern wrote bestselling books. His film “Private Parts” was a box office hit. He even served as a judge on “America’s Got Talent.” More recently, he earned praise as an interviewer, hosting stars like Lady Gaga and Bruce Springsteen.

What Happens Next for SiriusXM

Stern’s exit leaves SiriusXM without its biggest name. Andy Cohen told listeners that no one could replace him. SiriusXM president Scott Greenstein had also said the same in 2024.

The company now depends on its other hosts and podcasts. But it faces a crowded market. With subscriber losses already showing, the next steps will be critical.

Howard Stern’s departure from SiriusXM marks the end of an era. The satellite radio giant must now find a way forward without the voice that defined it for nearly 20 years.

Info at your fingertips-

Q1: Why did Howard Stern leave SiriusXM?

The company did not share details. Andy Cohen said it was not the handoff they expected. Stern stepped away on his own terms.

Q2: How long was Howard Stern at SiriusXM?

He joined in 2006. His partnership lasted almost 20 years before ending in 2025.

Q3: How many subscribers does SiriusXM have?

The company reported 33 million subscribers in Q2 2025. That number is lower than the previous year.

Q4: Who filled in after Stern’s exit?

Andy Cohen went live on the channel. He admitted it was a “surreal morning” and said Stern could not be replaced.

Q5: What impact will this have on SiriusXM?

SiriusXM loses its most famous star. The company must rely on podcasts and other hosts to keep its audience engaged.