Radio host Howard Stern has denied rumors that his show was canceled, addressing speculation during his latest broadcast on SiriusXM. After being absent from the air for weeks due to contract disputes, Stern confronted persistent claims about the future of “The Howard Stern Show.”

In a promo for his Monday return, the show teased questions about his departure with phrases like “Fired? Retiring? Canceled? Bye-Bye Booey?” However, the broadcast took an unexpected turn when TV host Andy Cohen jokingly announced he would take over Stern’s channel before clarifying the prank.

Stern emphasized that reports about his potential exit were false, stating, “Everything in the paper that you’ve been reading about me or about Robin is completely false.” He also hinted at contemplating retirement but noted he could not step away without fueling further speculation. “I’ll be back,” he declared, adding that SiriusXM and his team had discussed future plans.

SiriusXM, which has faced declining subscriber numbers, reported 33 million paid subscribers in the second quarter of 2025—a net loss of 68,000 from the previous quarter. The company competes with free platforms like Spotify amid a saturated market. Stern’s long-term association with SiriusXM includes a $500 million contract extension in 2020.

The radio personality, known for his provocative style and decades-long career, has remained a prominent figure in media, transitioning from terrestrial radio to satellite broadcasting in the late 1990s. His show, once syndicated nationwide, became a cultural phenomenon before moving to SiriusXM.