Howard Stern continues to command a substantial income from SiriusXM, even as his show transitions to a once-per-week format and experienced staff members have been let go. Stern's current contract with SiriusXM, renewed for three years in December 2025, ensures a significant financial return for the veteran radio host.
While the exact figures for his latest deal remain undisclosed, Stern is coming off a previous five-year contract reportedly worth $500 million, averaging $100 million annually. Based on his prior four-hour-per-week broadcast schedule, this equated to approximately $8,000 per minute. However, his earnings per minute are likely higher, considering his customary summer breaks and other vacation periods throughout the year.
This substantial pay comes on the heels of reports that Stern will reduce his on-air presence to a single show per week starting in the fall. Concurrently, around a dozen staffers from his SiriusXM show were terminated via Zoom. These employees were reportedly sent home immediately after the call and will receive severance packages based on their tenure with the company. Stern has retained a core team of veteran producers, citing a reduced need for content generation.
The remaining airtime on his show will be supplemented with archival material. Stern previously worked three days a week.
In December, Stern re-signed with SiriusXM, stating on his show that he had "figured out a way to have it all." He described the new contract as offering more "flexibility" and allowing for "more free time and continuing to be on the radio," while also noting his enjoyment of his days off and his busy schedule.
Stern first signed with Sirius Satellite Radio in 2004, a deal that was reported to be worth $500 million over five years and included provisions for production, staff, and stock awards. He has been a fixture on radio airwaves since the 1970s, often accompanied by his longtime co-host Robin Quivers. In 2011, Stern engaged in a lawsuit with Sirius, alleging that the company had not fulfilled stock award payments tied to subscriber growth. A spokesperson for Sirius did not immediately respond to a request for comment.