Additional Coverage:
- Howard Stern admits he’s ‘probably a scumbag’ as he breaks silence on toxic workspace claims (irishstar.com)
Howard Stern Breaks Silence on Workplace Controversies Amid Show Changes
After a summer marked by a wave of critical headlines, Howard Stern has finally responded to the recent allegations surrounding his SiriusXM show and workplace environment. The 72-year-old radio and television personality returned from an extended hiatus on Monday, addressing the controversies head-on during the season premiere of The Howard Stern Show.
Opening with a tongue-in-cheek comment about his hair, Stern remarked, “I’ve never had a summer where I was treated so well in the press,” before acknowledging the barrage of insults he received during his break. “I can’t tell you how many different people have called me a scumbag,” he added.
One of the more contentious points Stern tackled involved reports that staff were discouraged from speaking to him at company parties and that female employees were required to wear high heels while working. Stern disputed the footwear claim, explaining that some employees simply changed into heels on days with studio guests, likening it to dress code practices in other media organizations.
He also addressed the media coverage involving his wife, Beth Stern, who was reported to have “defended” him during a fashion event interview. Stern clarified that Beth was actually responding to questions about his recent HBO Max deal and accused the press of misrepresenting her comments.
In addition, Stern spoke about relinquishing control of his Howard 101 archive channel on SiriusXM, which has been replaced by Andy Cohen’s Radio Andy. He emphasized that this was his decision, made to avoid the responsibility of managing the channel, and dismissed rumors that Cohen had forced him out. Proudly calling himself the “most successful radio personality,” Stern downplayed the boast with a hint of humor.
The radio host expressed frustration that news of his new HBO Max agreement leaked before he had the chance to announce it himself. Under the new arrangement, a video version of his show will air on HBO Max each Thursday, while his live SiriusXM broadcasts have reportedly been scaled back to one program per week.
Stern also took aim at a journalist who reported on alleged workplace rules, sarcastically questioning her qualifications and criticizing a social media video about the claims.
Notably, Stern did not address the significant layoffs that reportedly affected at least 50 employees in two waves earlier this year, despite widespread reports of decreased morale and uncertainty among remaining staff amid the show’s evolving format and production changes.
As Howard Stern navigates this period of transition, his candid remarks underscore both his defiance in the face of criticism and the shifting dynamics within his long-running radio empire.