The Prank That Fooled Millions
Radio fans and entertainment outlets were left buzzing Monday after a shocking twist on The Howard Stern Show. For a brief moment, it seemed as though Howard Stern’s decades-long run at SiriusXM had come to a sudden and dramatic end. Stepping into the microphone, Bravo host Andy Cohen fueled the rumor mill by suggesting Stern was gone for good.
The stunt ignited a firestorm across social media and was quickly picked up by major outlets including Variety and the Associated Press. However, it was all a carefully orchestrated hoax—one that Cohen now says was masterminded entirely by Stern himself.
Andy Cohen Speaks Out in New York
Cohen was spotted in New York City after the show, where paparazzi asked him directly about the stunt. Without hesitation, the Watch What Happens Live! host made it clear:
“This was 100 percent Howard’s idea,” Cohen said. “I just played along. Honestly, it was fun.”
Cohen admitted he found particular joy in watching the world scramble, noting that even seasoned journalists bought into the story. “Seeing legitimate outlets report that Howard was out at SiriusXM—it was wild. That was the beauty of it. It was believable.”
Why the Hoax Worked
Part of what made the prank so convincing, Cohen explained, was Stern’s absence from the microphone during the segment. When Cohen filled in and implied that Stern was finished at the network, listeners were left with few reasons to doubt it.
“The timing was perfect,” Cohen said. “People were either furious or laughing. That’s exactly what Howard wanted.”
The uproar reflected Stern’s unique position in the broadcasting world. After more than four decades on the air and 20 years at SiriusXM, speculation about his career has become a constant. With his $500 million contract nearing expiration this year, many were already questioning whether the self-proclaimed “King of All Media” might step away from the mic.
Stern Returns to Set the Record Straight
Not long after Cohen’s takeover, Stern returned to the air to set the record straight. He laughed at the chaos the prank had caused, then took aim at the media outlets that rushed to publish reports of his departure.
“You all fell for it,” Stern declared on air, his signature mix of sarcasm and glee evident. “I’m not going anywhere.”
Stern emphasized that despite the rumors and headlines, his relationship with SiriusXM remains strong. He dismissed speculation of internal conflict, instead portraying the incident as a bit of fun designed to highlight how quickly misinformation spreads—even among respected news organizations.
A Contract in the Spotlight
While Stern insists he has no plans to leave, his looming contract negotiations have kept fans guessing. His current deal, worth an estimated half a billion dollars, is set to expire later this year. Industry insiders say SiriusXM will fight hard to retain him, given the massive subscriber base he commands.
For Cohen, the prank was less about contract drama and more about sharing in Stern’s mischievous spirit. “Howard loves keeping people on their toes,” he said. “That’s why he’s still at the top after all these years.”
Reaction from Fans and Media
The hoax sparked an avalanche of reactions online. Some listeners admitted they were devastated at the thought of Stern’s departure, while others praised the prank as classic Stern humor.
On social media, fans expressed both outrage and admiration:
-
“I almost canceled my subscription. Don’t play with my emotions like that, Howard!” one listener posted.
-
“This is why he’s the best. Only Howard could make half the media world look foolish in an hour,” wrote another.
The prank also reignited conversations about the future of traditional radio and how Stern continues to thrive in an era dominated by podcasts and streaming platforms.
Stern’s Legacy of Shock and Surprise
This latest stunt is hardly out of character for Stern, whose career has been built on pushing boundaries and catching audiences off guard. From his early years on terrestrial radio to his groundbreaking move to SiriusXM in 2006, Stern has consistently blurred the line between entertainment and controversy.
Cohen, a longtime friend and frequent guest of Stern’s, seemed genuinely delighted to play a role in the latest chapter. “It’s Howard being Howard,” he said with a grin.
What’s Next for Howard Stern?
With contract negotiations on the horizon, all eyes remain on what Stern decides to do next. For now, though, the legendary broadcaster has reassured fans he’s not leaving the microphone anytime soon.
And if Monday’s prank is any indication, Stern is still more than capable of shaking up the media landscape—even if it’s just for fun.
“Don’t believe everything you read,” Stern told his audience. “Especially when it comes from me.”
Sources: TMZ
