Howard Stern Dismisses Return To Terrestrial Radio

Howard Stern

ALL ACCESS broke the news last week (NET NEWS 1/21) that SIRIUS XM star HOWARD STERN confirmed rumored speculation that he may return to terrestrial radio. In an on-air discussion between him and syndicated morning host (and SIRIUS XM compadre) BUBBA THE LOVE SPONGE, the topic was addressed for over a half-hour.

During the talk, STERN admitted that he has been contacted by terrestrial radio parties, but has no "bona fide" offer yet 

Was It Clear Channel That Contacted Stern?

Soon thereafter, BUSINESSWEEK.COM reported CLEAR CHANNEL COMMUNICATIONS told BLOOMBERG BUSINESSWEEK that it may be interested in signing STERN, whose five-year contract expires at the end of 2010, if he would be willing to work "within the limitations" of free over-the-air radio.

We clearly have both the willingness and the financial wherewithal to consider high-profile talent. We would be the most logical company for him to optimize his exposure and financial return.

Despite STERN saying he "can't imagine that day that I'd ever work for CLEAR CHANNEL," CLEAR CHANNEL RADIO Pres./CEO JOHN HOGAN said it would be the best place for him. "We clearly have both the willingness and the financial wherewithal to consider high-profile talent. We would be the most logical company for him to optimize his exposure and financial return."

HOGAN told BUSINESSWEEK that CLEAR CHANNEL's signing of high-profile personalities such as RUSH LIMBAUGH and RYAN SEACREST proves it can afford, and is willing to represent such talent.

So Much For That Notion

Earlier TODAY, however, HOWARD STERN threw some cold water on speculation that he might return to terrestrial radio on TODAY's show, with the SIRIUS XM RADIO host saying he's "not going back." He clarified his discussion with BUBBA THE LOVE SPONGE by noting that the offers did not mean that he would be going back to terrestrial radio. 

Furthermore, he was not interested in the wider exposure he would get by leaving satellite radio.

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