Trump Critiques Howard Stern Amid Cancellation Rumors

U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly weighed in on the swirling rumors regarding the potential cancellation of Howard Stern’s radio show. Reports indicate that Sirius XM may not renew Stern’s contract when it expires at the end of this year. According to a report from the U.S. Sun, declining listenership is a significant factor in the decision, which raises questions about the show’s future.

The report claims that Stern, aged 71, has contemplated retirement over the past year. An unnamed insider stated, “Stern’s contract is up in the fall and while Sirius is planning to make him an offer, they don’t intend for him to take it. It’s no longer worth the investment.” The source further suggested that Stern’s political commentary, particularly his criticism of Trump and his stance on COVID-19 vaccinations, could influence Sirius XM’s decision-making.

Trump addressed these rumors during an interaction with Brian Glenn from Real America’s Voice, questioning whether the “hate Trump business model” is becoming unviable. Trump remarked, “Well, it hasn’t worked, and it hasn’t worked for a long time,” while also targeting other late-night hosts such as Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Fallon, whom he deemed talentless.

Stern’s show has been a staple of American radio for decades, but Trump suggested that the host’s decline began when he endorsed Hillary Clinton during the 2016 presidential election. Trump stated, “You know when he went down? When he endorsed Hillary Clinton, he lost his audience. People said, ‘Give me a break.’”

Despite the cancellation rumors, Stern made a brief return to the airwaves this week, announcing he is “refueling” for a comeback next month but did not address the speculation surrounding his show. Once friends, Stern and Trump’s relationship soured after Stern’s political endorsements in recent years.

In the lead-up to the 2024 election, Stern has promoted interviews with then-President Joe Biden and the Democratic nominee Kamala Harris, further alienating some of his audience. Known for his provocative style in the 1980s and 1990s, Stern has shifted to a more progressive stance, which he embraces as being “woke.”

“I don’t agree with Trump politically, I don’t think he should be anywhere near the White House,” Stern has said, expressing disdain for those who support Trump, calling them “stupid.” In a previous interview with Harris, he articulated confusion over the close nature of the election, stating, “I’m voting for you, but I would also vote for that wall over there, rather than a guy who says he doesn’t support Ukraine.”

Trump reacted strongly to Stern’s interview with Harris, criticizing it on social media. He claimed, “BETA MALE Howard Stern made a fool of himself on his low-rated radio show,” suggesting that Stern’s soft questioning made Harris appear competent when she was not.

As the landscape of American media continues to shift, the fate of Stern’s show remains uncertain. With Trump’s remarks and the ongoing conversations surrounding ratings and political affiliations, the future of the Howard Stern Show is a focal point in the entertainment industry. Whether Sirius XM will extend an offer that meets Stern’s expectations remains to be seen as the year comes to a close.