Howard Stern: Difference between revisions
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Stern announced in August 1993 his plan to host his second live pay-per-view special on December 31, titled ''[[Howard_Stern_pay-per-view_specials_and_tapes#Miss_Howard_Stern_New_Year.27s_Eve_Pageant|The Miss Howard Stern New Year's Eve Pageant]]''. Contests were held in each of the 16 cities where the radio show was syndicated to. The event surpassed the non-sports record in subscriber purchases, previously a [[New Kids on the Block]] concert in April 1990, ordered by 276,000 homes and bringing in $5.5 million.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.nytimes.com/1993/10/24/business/he-keeps-giving-new-meaning-to-gross-revenue.html?pagewanted=all |last=Mills |first=Joshua |title = He Keeps Giving New Meaning to Gross Revenue |publisher = The New York Times |date = 1993-10-24 }}</ref> It is estimated 400,000 households purchased the special, paying $39.93 each, for a record $16 million.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,300879,00.html |last=Svetkey |first=Benjamin |title = Stern Spurned |publisher = Entertainment Weekly |date = 1994-01-21 }}</ref> The pay-per-view was later released on VHS as ''Howard Stern's New Year's Rotten Eve 1994''. |
Stern announced in August 1993 his plan to host his second live pay-per-view special on December 31, titled ''[[Howard_Stern_pay-per-view_specials_and_tapes#Miss_Howard_Stern_New_Year.27s_Eve_Pageant|The Miss Howard Stern New Year's Eve Pageant]]''. Contests were held in each of the 16 cities where the radio show was syndicated to. The event surpassed the non-sports record in subscriber purchases, previously a [[New Kids on the Block]] concert in April 1990, ordered by 276,000 homes and bringing in $5.5 million.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.nytimes.com/1993/10/24/business/he-keeps-giving-new-meaning-to-gross-revenue.html?pagewanted=all |last=Mills |first=Joshua |title = He Keeps Giving New Meaning to Gross Revenue |publisher = The New York Times |date = 1993-10-24 }}</ref> It is estimated 400,000 households purchased the special, paying $39.93 each, for a record $16 million.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,300879,00.html |last=Svetkey |first=Benjamin |title = Stern Spurned |publisher = Entertainment Weekly |date = 1994-01-21 }}</ref> The pay-per-view was later released on VHS as ''Howard Stern's New Year's Rotten Eve 1994''. |
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In June 1994, cameras were installed in the radio show studio to produce a half-hour show named ''Howard Stern'' shown on E!. A consistent ratings winner, the show came to an end after eleven years in July 2005. On November 18, 2005, Howard Stern launched |
In June 1994, cameras were installed in the radio show studio to produce a half-hour show named ''Howard Stern'' shown on E!. A consistent ratings winner, the show came to an end after eleven years in July 2005. On November 18, 2005, Howard Stern launched Ifuk TV in conjunction with his move to satellite radio. |
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Stern embarked on a political campaign for [[Governor of New York]] in March 1994, announcing his candidacy under the [[Libertarian Party (United States)|Libertarian Party]] ticket.<ref>[http://www.theadvocates.org/celebrities/howard-stern.html Howard Stern - Libertarian<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> He challenged [[Mario Cuomo]] for re-election, largely in opposition to the governor's stand against the reinstitution of the [[death penalty]]. Following his announcement March 22, Stern made a clear three-point platform. He promised to bring the penalty back, change highway toll collection methods to improve traffic flow, and limit road construction to night hours.<ref name=colgovernor>[[#Reference-colford|Colford 1997]], pp. 233-248.</ref><ref> {{ cite news | title = Stern Message | date = July 1994 | publisher = Reason Magazine| url = http://www.reason.com/news/show/29472.html | author = Nick Gillespie }}</ref> He then ensured he would step down as governor upon achieving these goals. On April 23, at the party's nomination convention in [[Albany, New York|Albany]], Stern won the required two-thirds majority on the first ballot, receiving 287 of the 381 votes cast (75.33%). James Ostrowski, who was also running for candidacy, finished second with 34 votes (8.92%).<ref> {{ cite web | title = NY Governor - LBT Convention Race | date = 1994-04-23| url = http://www.ourcampaigns.com/RaceDetail.html?RaceID=93072 | author = Our Campaigns }}</ref> Stern subsequently withdrew his candidacy under two specific campaign requirements. He was obliged to state his home address used on petitions to place his name on the November ballot. It was also necessary to complete a financial disclosure form, under the 1987 [[Ethics in Government Act]]. Arguing the disclosure law violated his right to privacy and freedom of association, Stern was denied a temporary injunction on August 2. Two days later in an on-air press conference, he announced his withdrawal, after five months.<ref name=colgovernor>[[#Reference-colford|Colford 1997]], pp. 233-248.</ref> He then endorsed [[George Pataki]], who went on to defeat Cuomo in the [[New York gubernatorial election, 1994|gubernatorial election]] on November 8, with 48.8%. |
Stern embarked on a political campaign for [[Governor of New York]] in March 1994, announcing his candidacy under the [[Libertarian Party (United States)|Libertarian Party]] ticket.<ref>[http://www.theadvocates.org/celebrities/howard-stern.html Howard Stern - Libertarian<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> He challenged [[Mario Cuomo]] for re-election, largely in opposition to the governor's stand against the reinstitution of the [[death penalty]]. Following his announcement March 22, Stern made a clear three-point platform. He promised to bring the penalty back, change highway toll collection methods to improve traffic flow, and limit road construction to night hours.<ref name=colgovernor>[[#Reference-colford|Colford 1997]], pp. 233-248.</ref><ref> {{ cite news | title = Stern Message | date = July 1994 | publisher = Reason Magazine| url = http://www.reason.com/news/show/29472.html | author = Nick Gillespie }}</ref> He then ensured he would step down as governor upon achieving these goals. On April 23, at the party's nomination convention in [[Albany, New York|Albany]], Stern won the required two-thirds majority on the first ballot, receiving 287 of the 381 votes cast (75.33%). James Ostrowski, who was also running for candidacy, finished second with 34 votes (8.92%).<ref> {{ cite web | title = NY Governor - LBT Convention Race | date = 1994-04-23| url = http://www.ourcampaigns.com/RaceDetail.html?RaceID=93072 | author = Our Campaigns }}</ref> Stern subsequently withdrew his candidacy under two specific campaign requirements. He was obliged to state his home address used on petitions to place his name on the November ballot. It was also necessary to complete a financial disclosure form, under the 1987 [[Ethics in Government Act]]. Arguing the disclosure law violated his right to privacy and freedom of association, Stern was denied a temporary injunction on August 2. Two days later in an on-air press conference, he announced his withdrawal, after five months.<ref name=colgovernor>[[#Reference-colford|Colford 1997]], pp. 233-248.</ref> He then endorsed [[George Pataki]], who went on to defeat Cuomo in the [[New York gubernatorial election, 1994|gubernatorial election]] on November 8, with 48.8%. |
Revision as of 22:17, 9 February 2010
Howard Stern | |
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![]() Stern in 2000 | |
Born | Howard Allan Stern January 12, 1954 |
Occupation | Media personality |
Years active | 1975–present |
Known for | The Howard Stern Show |
Spouse(s) | Beth Ostrosky (2008-present) Alison Berns (1978-2001) |
Children | 3 |
Website | www.howardstern.com |
Howard Allan Stern (born January 12, 1954) is an American radio and media personality most notable for his radio show which since January 9, 2006, has been broadcasting on Sirius XM, an uncensored satellite radio service. Although described by the media as a "shock jock" for his sometimes controversial commentary and segments, Stern argues it never was his intention to "shock" people, whether discussing world affairs or the staff he works with. Stern is the highest-paid radio personality in the United States,[1] and also the most fined,[2] following a long history with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) since 1987.
Stern began his career in the radio industry in February 1975 at his campus station at Boston University, presenting a one-hour comedy program called "The King Schmaltz Bagel Hour" with college friends. Developing his on-air style for four years at Briarcliff Manor, Hartford and Detroit from 1977–1980, Stern paired up with his on-air news anchor Robin Quivers at Washington, D.C. in 1981. By August 1982, he arrived at New York City, the country's largest radio market. Despite numerous disputes with management, Stern would have the top afternoon show by mid-1985. After being fired that September, he returned to New York airwaves on WXRK after a two-month absence, broadcasting for over twenty years until leaving for satellite radio, where he would be free from content restrictions imposed by the FCC, in December 2005.
Despite being little known outside the United States Stern describes himself as "The King of All Media" for his successes not only in radio but in print, film and television. His two books, Private Parts (1993) and Miss America (1995), received great media attention and sales, topping The New York Times Best Seller list within weeks of their release. The former was later adapted into a 1997 film of the same name directed by Betty Thomas, which grossed over $40 million in the United States alone. Stern's television endeavors include various late night shows and successful pay-per-view specials.
Early life and education (1954–1976)
Howard Stern was born on January 12, 1954 in the Queens neighborhood of Jackson Heights in New York City. His father Ben was the son of Froim and Anna (née Gallar) Stern, who were natives of the former Austria-Hungary and eventually settled in the South Bronx.[3] His mother, Ray (née Schiffman), was also a child of Austro-Hungarian immigrants, Sol and Esther (née Reich) Schiffman. Stern describes his only sister Ellen, who is four years his senior, as "completely opposite", though they maintain a good relationship through their complementing personalities.[4] Although born into a Jewish American family (his Hebrew name is "Tzvi"), Stern claims on radio that he is just "half-Jewish".[5][6] Stern has stated that his mother, a homemaker for most of his childhood,[7][8] ran her house with "the intensity of Hitler"[9] and that his father's "favorite sport was yelling."[10] Five months after Stern's birth, the family moved to the Long Island town of Roosevelt.[11]
Stern's interest in radio began when he was five years old.[12] His father Ben was a co-owner of Aura Recording, Inc., a studio in Manhattan where voices for cartoons and commercials would be recorded. On occasion when he would go to work with his father as a youngster, Stern had the opportunity meeting the likes of Wally Cox, Don Adams and Larry Storch, the voices of his favourite cartoon characters. Such visits influenced him to be on the radio himself, not to play records, but to talk. During an August 1990 broadcast when old family recordings from the studio were played, some of Ben's remarks became notable sound bites, including, "I told you not to be stupid, you moron!" and "Shut up! Sit down!" being yelled at Stern, seven years old at the time.[13] After the Second World War, Ben worked as a technician at WHOM-AM, a Manhattan radio station which ironically became WKTU-FM in 1975 and WXRK-FM a decade later, where Stern would broadcast from for over twenty years in his career.[14]
Stern attended Washington Rose Elementary School until the end of sixth grade.[15] He then went to Roosevelt Junior-Senior High School, where by the end of the 1968-69 academic year, more than three-quarters of the 4,000 school children in Roosevelt were African American.[16] Stern later published his experiences in his 1993 autobiography, describing the abuse and beatings he received from black students.[17] In June 1969, the family moved to the Long Island town of Rockville Centre, where Stern transferred to South Side High School, from which he graduated in the spring of 1972.[18][19]
By the year's fall, having turned down an acceptance at Elmira College in upstate New York, Stern attended Boston University for its reputation in broadcast communications.[20][21] Now standing at a tall 6 ft 5 in (1.96 m),[22] he developed an interest in Transcendental Meditation which he practices to this day.[23] He credits the practice with aiding him in quitting smoking and achieving his goals in radio.[24] Stern has interviewed Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the founder of the technique, twice in his career.[25] His mother also learned the technique, claiming it cured her depression.[26]
In his sophomore year, Stern volunteered at WTBU-FM, the campus radio station where he spun records and read the news.[23][27] In February 1975, he and three elder students put on a comedy show named The King Schmaltz Bagel Hour, loosely named after the syndicated radio show King Biscuit Flower Hour.[28][18] The show ran for nine weeks before being cancelled for "Godzilla Goes to Harlem", a sketch which angered the station's manager.[28] Stern graduated magna cum laude in May 1976 with a bachelor's degree in Communications, carrying a 3.8 Grade Point Average.[29][18] He now funds a scholarship at the university.[30]
Early radio career and first marriage (1977–1980)
Among the radio stations Stern contacted after graduating from Boston University was WRNW-FM, a progressive rock station in Briarcliff Manor in Westchester County, New York. Donald Jay Barnett, the station's general manager, interviewed Stern and liked his audition tape, putting Stern at the front of future job openings. Besides college training and his first class FCC license, Stern only had brief professional experience at WNTN-AM in Newton, Massachusetts from August to December 1975.[27][31][32] Stern however, rejected work from Barnett. He became unsure of his talent, questioned his future in the radio industry, and took an entry-level position at the New York advertising agency Benton & Bowles. He soon changed his mind, agreeing to work at WRNW on Christmas Day in 1976. "I called him and he jumped at the chance to come in that day", recalled Barnett.[32] Stern was later hired to work a four hour midday shift for six days, being paid $96 a week before taxes.[32] By November 1977, Stern became the station's program director, graduating to a $12,000 annual salary.[33] Steering the station towards softer rock, Stern aimed for a definite sound. "We want people to turn on and know right away, 'that's WRNW, that's my station, I like it'", he told The New York Times in 1978.[33]
Stern was living with college sweetheart Alison Berns, dividing their time between the Upper West Side of Manhattan and Bronx River Road in Yonkers, which for Stern was closer to WRNW.[33] As Berns completed her masters degree in social work at Columbia University, the two planned their wedding. On June 4, 1978, they married at Ohabei Shalom, a Reform synagogue in Brookline, Massachusetts, both 24 years old.[34] They have three daughters – Emily Beth (b. 1983), Debra Jennifer (b. 1986) and Ashley Jade (b. 1993).[35][36] A hallmark of Stern's humor was his claim to be tempted by the strippers, porn stars and lesbians appearing on his show, but always insisted that he had to be faithful to his wife.
In 1979, Stern spotted an opening for a wild morning personality at WCCC-FM and WCCC-AM, a rock station in Hartford, Connecticut. During the development of his audition tape, he did flatulence routines, performing one-liners and played records by Robert Klein, Cheech and Chong and Neil Young.[37] Bill Nosal, the station's program director, recalled Stern's tape being "nothing special", being mainly time and temperature oriented, yet noticed "something about him" that he liked.[38] When hired in the spring, Stern faced a tough work schedule. After four hours on the air, he then produced commercials for two. On Saturdays, he worked six hours on-air, followed by further production work for three. During the morning switch over, Stern succeeded his future show writer and producer Fred Norris, a college student working overnights at the time.[39] In March 1980, Stern departed after being denied a raise by station owner Sy Dresner.[40] His audition tape for a new morning shift at WWWW-FM in Detroit, Michigan was well received by management, offering him a salary more than twice his earnings.[41]
Stern moved to Southfield, a suburb of Detroit, and began at "W-4" on April 21, 1980.[18] Problems soon arose for Stern and the station. It struggled with its rock music format, and Stern trailed his morning competitors in the Arbitron ratings. Among them was Steve Dahl, who in June 1980 was syndicated to WABX-FM from WLUP-FM in Chicago.[42] Dahl in fact worked the same shift as Stern at "W-4" in 1976. The addition of a fourth rock station, WLLZ-FM, quickened the need for change for "W-4". Stern nevertheless continued to develop his on-air personality. "I learned that I had to be more aggressive and let more of myself come out", he later told Newsday.[43] He also began getting noticed in the industry, winning a Billboard Award for "Best Album-Oriented Rock Disc Jockey", the Drake-Chenault "Top Five Talent Search", and one of his on-air bits was sent across the country.[44] On Sunday January 18, 1981, Stern awakened to hear his station had gone to a country music format.[45] Much to his dislike, he grudgingly played records he had to as "Hopalong Howie", for a short while. In considering his next move, radio consultant Dwight Douglas invited Stern to a new morning shift at a rock station he also advised – WWDC-FM in Washington, D.C. New management wished for an attention-grabbing morning program.[45]
Washington and WNBC New York (1981–1985)
After nine months in Detroit, Stern moved to a high-rise apartment in Bethesda, Maryland, working at "DC-101", his fourth job in five years. Beginning on March 2, 1981,[18] he realized what was missing from his show – an on-air newscaster to mix it up with him.[46] It was then, when program director Denise Oliver paired Stern with Robin Quivers, a radio news anchor from WFBR-AM in Baltimore. She later described a "wonderful chemistry" had developed between them, with her contributions making the show sound less "robotic".[47] By January 1982, Stern had the second highest-rated program in Washington.[48]
The new year would see Stern venture into his first project outside radio. Wren Records Limited approached him to produce an album of his comedy bits, titled 50 Ways to Rank Your Mother. Rather than accepting royalties generated on sales, Stern requested a payment upfront, receiving $35,000 in total.[49] In review of the parody LP, Greg Prato of Allmusic writes, "Its creator has denounced this product countless times, maybe that should tell you something," giving a rating of 1.5 out of 5.[50] Rights to the album later changed hands, being re-released as Unclean Beaver on compact disc in November 1994.[49]
Impressed with his ratings, general manager Goff Lebhar offered Stern a long-term contract. Stern's then-attorney, Jeffrey Southmayd, rejected Lebhar's initial offer. "Then, NBC called us ... and represented us with a real choice."[48] Jerry Nachman, general manager of NBC-owned WRC-AM, was impressed by Stern. He contacted his boss, Robert Sherman, then-vice president of the NBC Radio Network, who offered Stern the afternoon drive shift at the network's flagship station, WNBC-AM in New York City. Stern was particularly interested, having signed a contract months later that included a salary of $1 million over five years.[51] By this time, Stern faced continual criticism from "DC-101" management, and began to ridicule Lebhar on the air. Unaware of Stern's talks with NBC, Lebhar found out in March 1982 when newspapers began reporting Stern's move.[52] Stern's contract was terminated on June 25, 1982.[53] His spring Arbitron ratings were his best in Washington, claiming an 8% share of the morning audience, ranking third overall. He had more than tripled his ratings during his time at "DC-101".[53]
In mid-1982 Stern returned to New York and worked afternoons at WNBC. Working at NBC at that time was David Letterman, who became a fan of Stern's radio show. His guest appearance on Late Night with David Letterman on June 19, 1984, launched Stern into the national spotlight for the first time. In the spring of 1985, Stern had the top afternoon show in New York, with a record 5.7% share of the listening audience, the highest at the station since 1981.[54] Among the success, Stern's relationship with management deteriorated.
Joining K-Rock and early television endeavors (1985–1992)
Following their exit from WNBC, Stern and Quivers kept busy performing a series of live shows at clubs during October and November 1985.[55] Dates included performances at Club Bene in Sayreville, New Jersey, and the Candlewood Theater in New Fairfield, Connecticut. The show included song parodies, magic tricks and video screenings. The two, however, were eager to return to New York airwaves. On November 6, 1985, rock station WXRK-FM announced Stern's return to afternoons, starting November 18.[56] By February 1986, with his old crew hired at the station, the show moved to morning drive. That August, WYSP-FM in Philadelphia became the first Stern affiliate. By 1991, his show was syndicated on WJFK-FM in Washington, D.C. and KLSX-FM in Los Angeles, and then nationwide by WXRK owner Infinity Broadcasting. The program made great sport out of feuding with other cities' top-rated morning personalities, and soon Stern's broadcast was number one in the country's several major radio markets. Stern remained at "K-Rock" until December 2005, a period of over 20 years.
Stern's career in television began in May 1987, when Fox was looking for a late night talk show to replace The Late Show, then hosted by Joan Rivers. Stern then recorded five pilot episodes of The Howard Stern Show which ultimately, never made it to air.
In July 1990, Stern began a weekly hour-long comedy show on WWOR-TV, also called The Howard Stern Show. Lasting a total of 69 episodes before ending in 1992, Stern felt production began to interfere with the growth of his radio show.[57] Stern however, began his time on the E! Entertainment Television network in late 1992, hosting a one-on-one celebrity interview show named The Howard Stern Interview.
Private Parts, E! show and run for Governor (1993–1994)
In early 1993, Stern signed a contract with publisher Simon & Schuster to write his first book. His advance of around $1 million was more than four times what Pocket Books, a division of Schuster, had given radio personality Rush Limbaugh for his first book, The Way Things Ought to Be, a year earlier.[58] Stern worked with editor Judith Regan and co-author Larry Sloman during the year to meet the short deadline of a fall release. Initial titles for the book were rejected, including Mein Kampf and Penis, with Private Parts being settled on instead.[59] The release on October 7 triggered rapid sales, with Schuster having doubled initial printing, having distributed 750,000 copies within the first week.[58][60] An additional 250,000 were added by the month's end. The book debuted at the top of The New York Times Best Seller list, and the fastest-selling in Schuster's history after five days.[61] Stern has written forewords for Steal This Dream, a biography of Abbie Hoffman, Disgustingly Dirty Joke Book by former radio show writer and comedian Jackie Martling, and most recently Too Fat to Fish by show comedian Artie Lange.
Stern announced in August 1993 his plan to host his second live pay-per-view special on December 31, titled The Miss Howard Stern New Year's Eve Pageant. Contests were held in each of the 16 cities where the radio show was syndicated to. The event surpassed the non-sports record in subscriber purchases, previously a New Kids on the Block concert in April 1990, ordered by 276,000 homes and bringing in $5.5 million.[62] It is estimated 400,000 households purchased the special, paying $39.93 each, for a record $16 million.[63] The pay-per-view was later released on VHS as Howard Stern's New Year's Rotten Eve 1994.
In June 1994, cameras were installed in the radio show studio to produce a half-hour show named Howard Stern shown on E!. A consistent ratings winner, the show came to an end after eleven years in July 2005. On November 18, 2005, Howard Stern launched Ifuk TV in conjunction with his move to satellite radio.
Stern embarked on a political campaign for Governor of New York in March 1994, announcing his candidacy under the Libertarian Party ticket.[64] He challenged Mario Cuomo for re-election, largely in opposition to the governor's stand against the reinstitution of the death penalty. Following his announcement March 22, Stern made a clear three-point platform. He promised to bring the penalty back, change highway toll collection methods to improve traffic flow, and limit road construction to night hours.[65][66] He then ensured he would step down as governor upon achieving these goals. On April 23, at the party's nomination convention in Albany, Stern won the required two-thirds majority on the first ballot, receiving 287 of the 381 votes cast (75.33%). James Ostrowski, who was also running for candidacy, finished second with 34 votes (8.92%).[67] Stern subsequently withdrew his candidacy under two specific campaign requirements. He was obliged to state his home address used on petitions to place his name on the November ballot. It was also necessary to complete a financial disclosure form, under the 1987 Ethics in Government Act. Arguing the disclosure law violated his right to privacy and freedom of association, Stern was denied a temporary injunction on August 2. Two days later in an on-air press conference, he announced his withdrawal, after five months.[65] He then endorsed George Pataki, who went on to defeat Cuomo in the gubernatorial election on November 8, with 48.8%.
Miss America, Private Parts movie and CBS show (1995–1998)
Stern's outspoken style has brought criticism. For example, a few days after the murder of singer Selena, Stern criticized her music. Stern said, "This music does absolutely nothing for me. Alvin and the Chipmunks have more soul... Spanish people have the worst taste in music. They have no depth." Stern's comments outraged and infuriated the Hispanic community across Texas. Contrary to popular belief, Stern did not mock her murder. His focus was on her music.[68]
Stern signed a contract with ReganBooks to write a second book, with an advance of around $3 million.[69] Titled Miss America, it was released on November 7, 1995. It instantly sold 33,000 copies at Barnes & Noble stores and a total 120,000 in the first week, knocking off My American Journey by Colin Powell from the top spot on national best-seller lists.
Stern's 1993 autobiography was adapted into a biographical film in 1997, developed from a script by Len Blum and Michael Kalesniko.[70] Directed by Betty Thomas, the film topped the box office in its opening weekend with a gross of $14.6 million,[71] and slightly more than $41 million in total.[71] Although receiving mostly positive reviews from critics including Siskel and Ebert, Rotten Tomatoes claim the film glossed over Stern's use of his sexual and racial humor.[72] For his performance, Stern won the Blockbuster Entertainment Award for "Favorite Male Newcomer." The awards are given based on write-in votes from fans, and Stern won by a wide margin.[73] Stern was also nominated for a Golden Satellite Award for "Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture (Comedy)," and a Razzie Award for "Worst New Star."[74]
Stern competed with Saturday Night Live with The Howard Stern Radio Show, a Saturday night show broadcast on CBS and its affiliates. This was soon to be unsuccessful, with Stern's show being beaten by SNL in the ratings.[75] The show ran for 84 episodes until May 19, 2001. Stern quit further episodes so he could produce a syndicated show called Kane,[76] yet the show was never produced. He was also involved with a pilot starring comedian Robert Schimmel that didn't get picked up as a series.
Separation and television productions (1999–2002)
On October 25, 1999, Stern announced that he and Alison decided to separate.[77] They amicably divorced in 2001, which ended in a settlement.[78] Stern began a period of single living in New York City's Upper West Side, dating a number of women including Angie Everhart, Pamela Anderson, and Robin Givens.[79][80] Despite reportedly spending time with Carmen Electra "five times", the two have denied there was anything more intimate than an outdoor shower in bathing suits.[81]
In spring of 2000, Stern began dating model Beth Ostrosky, who co-hosted Casino Cinema on Spike TV from 2004 to 2007.[78][82] She had also frequently appeared in the American edition of men's magazine FHM until it ceased publication in 2007.[83] The pair have lived together in Manhattan with their bulldog "Bianca Romijn-Stamos O'Connell." Stern also owns a house in the Hamptons on Long Island. On February 14, 2007, after a period of seven years, Stern announced his engagement to Ostrosky.[78] They later married on October 3, 2008, at the Le Cirque restaurant in New York City.[84]
In 2002, Stern's production company, Howard Stern Productions, acquired the rights to the 1979 film Rock 'n' Roll High School and the 1982 film Porky's, neither of which have yet to be re-made. Stern was also a producer of the series Son of the Beach, which ran for three seasons. He informed listeners in early 2004 that he was in talks with ABC to produce an interview special, which never materialized. He also intended to produce two cartoons, Doomsday[85] and Howard Stern: The High School Years,[86] but neither of these ever made it to the airwaves. In 2009, Stern explained that he refused to agree to flash animation over traditionally drawn cartoons.
Move to satellite radio (2004–present)
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/24/Wikinews-logo.svg/40px-Wikinews-logo.svg.png)
Stern announced on October 6, 2004, that he signed a five-year contract with Sirius Satellite Radio, a medium free from the regulations imposed by the FCC. He was unhappy broadcasting on traditional radio. With the combined stresses of heavy censorship, editing by management, and lengthy commercial breaks, Stern revealed he felt "dead inside" creatively.[87] The contract with Sirius, which took effect on January 1, 2006, allowed Stern to have three channels, although only two are currently used. Sirius provided a budget of $500 million to pay Stern, his staff and general production costs.[88] The deal included an additional one-time stock bonus for Stern and his agent, as a subscriber quota set in 2004 was met. Sources claim that the bonus was worth approximately $218 million.[89] The contract will expire on December 31, 2010.
On October 26, 2004, Michael Powell, then the chairman of the FCC, was being interviewed on KGO-AM in San Francisco. Stern called in and questioned Powell's credentials. "How did you get your job?", Stern asked. "It is apparent to most of us in broadcasting that your father (former Secretary of State Colin Powell) got you your job." Stern accused Powell and the Commission of crusading against his radio show by levying huge fines but not allowing them their day in court to determine if the show is obscene. Stern also accused Powell of racketeering by blocking Viacom from buying new stations or renewing licenses of existing radio stations unless they pay up. Powell told Stern, "I don't think we have made any particular crusade of the Howard Stern show or you." Stern replied, "Yeah, OK, Michael, that's why I've received the largest fines in history."[90]
On February 28, 2006, CBS Radio (formerly Infinity Broadcasting) announced it had filed a lawsuit against Stern, his agent Don Buchwald, and Sirius, arguing that Stern promoted Sirius "to enrich himself unfairly."[91] It also claimed that Stern "repeatedly and will-fully" breached his contract with CBS, "misappropriated millions of dollars worth [of airtime]" for his own benefit and "fraudulently concealed" his performance-related interests in Sirius stock. The suit, filed in New York State Court, sought compensatory and punitive damages. Stern anticipated the suit, and earlier that day, prior to CBS' announcement, held a press conference, discussing how CBS added to the media attention, even booking him for appearances on Late Show with David Letterman and 60 Minutes. "I made them millions of dollars," Stern argued. "If I was hurting them, why did they keep me on the air for fourteen months? How can you have it both ways?"[92]
When a settlement was announced on May 26, 2006, Sirius gained exclusive rights to Stern's back catalogue of radio broadcasts at WXRK from November 1985 to December 2005, totalling almost 23,000 hours.[93] The rights, costing Sirius approximately $2 million, equates to approximately $87 per-hour of tape.[94]
In May 2006, Stern was included in the Time 100 list by Time magazine, part of the hundred most influential people in the world.[95] and was ranked number seven in "World's Most Powerful Celebrity" by Forbes.[96]
Hobbies
Stern regularly plays on the Internet Chess Club. He has taken on-line lessons from Dan Heisman, a chess master from Philadelphia.[97]
In popular culture
Stern's prevalent media presence has led to his being parodied or referenced in various outlets;
- His radio show is spoofed briefly in British satire Brasseye as The Adolf Snarn Show during the "Sex" episode.
- In the Family Guy episode "Mr. Griffin Goes to Washington", a flashback depicts Peter Griffin repeatedly yelling "Bababooey!" at the Clarence Thomas hearings, a reference to Stern fans' practice of shouting that word (itself a reference to Stern's producer, Gary Dell'Abate) in order to disrupt live call-in TV and radio shows.
- In the Futurama episode "The Luck of the Fryish", while walking down an empty 'Old' New York City, Fry yells out "Howard Stern is overrated!", as one of the things he always wished he could have done in New York. (Ironically, from 1989 through 1995, Billy West, the voice of Fry, was a regular cast member of The Howard Stern Show and provided the show with various character voices.)
- He has been twice depicted in the MTV claymation comedy Celebrity Deathmatch, first as the victorious opponent of Kathie Lee Gifford, and again as a guest referee in a match between Carmen Electra and Jenny McCarthy.
- In the South Park episode "Fat Camp", Kenny McCormick has oral sex with Stern in exchange for money.
- In the 1990s show Animaniacs episode Morning Malaise, Yakko, Wakko, and Dot enter the studio of "Howie Tern," a clear parody of Howard Stern.
- Both Howard Stern and The Lion King are parodied on The Critic as animals would gather around the New York area to worship The Cockroach King. Stern would then ask a cricket to show him her thorax, which she would cheerfully giggle to.
See also
- Howard 100 News
- List of celebrity guests on The Howard Stern Show
- Howard Stern pay-per-view specials and tapes
- Sirius XM Radio
- The Wack Pack
Notes
- ^ "NewsMax Top 25 Radio Hosts". Newsmax.com. November 29, 2008. p. 1. Retrieved 2008-11-29.
- ^ Miller, Mark (2004-12-20). "10 Ways Howard Stern Could Stick It To The FCC". Weekly World News. Retrieved 2009-09-22.
- ^ Colford 1997, p. 2.
- ^ Stern 1993, p. 46.
- ^
Kaplan, Jason (2006-03-01). "The Return of Ms. Laurer". HowardStern.com. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
{{cite web}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthors=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ Simicich, Nick (1997-09-04). "FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Howard Stern". alt.fan.howard-stern. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
- ^ Stern 1993, p. 44.
- ^ Stern 1993, p. 92.
- ^ Stern 1993, p. 36.
- ^ Stern 1993, p. 41.
- ^ Stern 1993, p. 63.
- ^ Stern 1993, pp. 112-114.
- ^ Stern 1993, p. 43.
- ^ Colford 1997, p. 7.
- ^ Colford 1997, p. 9.
- ^ Colford 1997, p. 10.
- ^ Stern 1993, p. 65.
- ^ a b c d e "The History of Howard Stern Act I Interactive Guide". Sirius.com.
- ^ "It Happened in Long Island". Newsday. Archived from the original on 2005-05-25.
- ^ Colford 1997, p. 28.
- ^ Stern 1993, p. 54-55.
- ^ Steinberg, Jacques (2007-01-09). "Stern Likes His New Censor: Himself". The New York Times. p. 1. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
- ^ a b Colford 1997, p. 29.
- ^ Mwangaguhunga, Ron (2006-02-21). "Howard Stern and Transcendental Meditation". Awarenessblog. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
- ^ Marinucci, Steve (2009-03-25). "Beatle News Briefs: Lynch Benefit to Be Webcast; Howard Stern to introduce Ringo".
- ^ Fishman, Steve (2005-12-04). "Howard Stern in Space". New York Magazine.
- ^ a b Stern 1993, pp. 117-118. Cite error: The named reference "pp117-118" was defined multiple times with different content (see the help page).
- ^ a b Colford 1997, p. 30.
- ^ Stern 1993, p. 115.
- ^ "Financial Assistance - Other COM Scholarships and Assistance". College of Communication Bulletin 2009/2010.
- ^ Stern 1993, p. 123.
- ^ a b c Colford 1997, pp. 33-35.
- ^ a b c Colford 1997, pp. 40-42.
- ^ "Profile for Howard Stern". Internet Movie Database. Retrieved 2009-10-15.
- ^ Phillips, Erica (2006-02-21). "Meet: The Cast". Sirius.com. Archived from the original on 2006-02-21. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
- ^ Mercer, Mark. "Stern Show Birthdays". MarksFriggin.com. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
- ^ Stern 1993, p. 125.
- ^ Colford 1997, p. 45.
- ^ Stern 1993, p. 127.
- ^ "Hartford Radio History - WCCC-FM". HartfordRadioHistory.com. Retrieved 2010-01-10.
- ^ Colford 1997, pp. 51-54.
- ^ Colford 1997, p. 60.
- ^ Colford 1997, p. 57.
- ^ Stern 1993, p. 134.
- ^ a b Colford 1997, p. 61.
- ^ Stern 1993, p. 135.
- ^ Colford 1997, p. 68.
- ^ a b Colford 1997, p. 78.
- ^ a b Colford 1997, p. 82.
- ^ "Unclean Beaver". Allmusic.
- ^ Colford 1997, p. 81.
- ^ Colford 1997, p. 85.
- ^ a b Colford 1997, pp. 88-89.
- ^ Colford 1997, p. 128.
- ^ "The History of Howard Stern Act II Interactive Guide". Sirius.com.
- ^ Colford 1997, pp. 148-149.
- ^ "The Howard Stern Show" (1990)
- ^ a b Colford 1997, pp. 222-223. Cite error: The named reference "col222" was defined multiple times with different content (see the help page).
- ^ Fink, Mitchell (1993-08-30). "The Insider". People Magazine, Vol. 40. Retrieved 2010-01-10.
- ^ "The History of Howard Stern Act III On-Air Schedule". Sirius.com. Retrieved 2010-01-10.
- ^ "Stern's 'Private Parts' Tops Limbaugh's Mark". The Wichita Eagle. October 20, 1993.
Five days after its publication, "Private Parts" had become the fastest-selling book in the 70-year history of Simon & Schuster.
{{cite news}}
: Italic or bold markup not allowed in:|publisher=
(help) - ^ Mills, Joshua (1993-10-24). "He Keeps Giving New Meaning to Gross Revenue". The New York Times.
- ^ Svetkey, Benjamin (1994-01-21). "Stern Spurned". Entertainment Weekly.
- ^ Howard Stern - Libertarian
- ^ a b Colford 1997, pp. 233-248.
- ^ Nick Gillespie (July 1994). "Stern Message". Reason Magazine.
- ^ Our Campaigns (1994-04-23). "NY Governor - LBT Convention Race".
- ^ Asin, Stephanie and Dyer, R.A. "Selena's public outraged: Shock jock Howard Stern's comments hit raw nerve." Houston Chronicle, April 6, 1995. Retrieved on February 1, 2008.
- ^ Colford 1997, pp. 265-266.
- ^ Betty Thomas(Director) (March 1997). [[Private Parts (1997 film)|Private Parts]] (Motion picture). Los Angeles, CA: Paramount Pictures. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
{{cite AV media}}
: URL–wikilink conflict (help) - ^ a b Box Office Report - Box Office by Film - Private Parts
- ^ Private Parts Movie Reviews, Pictures - Rotten Tomatoes
- ^ Blockbuster Entertainment Awards 1998
- ^ Razzies awards forums 1997 "Winners"
- ^ Ratings of Howard Stern, SNL and MadTV
- ^ The Howard Stern TV Shows: Kane
- ^ "Howard Talks About His Separation From His Wife. 10/25/99. 6:10am". MarksFriggin.com. Retrieved 2009-10-15.
- ^ a b c "Howard Stern Engaged to Model Girlfriend". The Washington Post. 2007-02-14. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
- ^ "The One That Got Away". HowardStern.com. 2007-03-21.
- ^ "The One Before Beth". HowardStern.com. 2007-06-07.
- ^ Mercer, Mark (2002-07-29). "Pet Talk. 7/29/02. 9:55am". MarksFriggin.com. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
He said that they hung out like 5 times a couple of years ago but he never slept with her. He keeps saying they didn't do anything even when they took a steam shower together...in their bathing suits. Howard said even if Carmen were on the show she would say the same thing.
- ^ Casino Cinema on Internet Movie Database
- ^
Reiter, Amy (June 1, 2005). "The Fix". Salon. Retrieved September 2007.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|accessdate=
(help) - ^ Calabrese, Erin (2008-10-03). "Howard Stern gets married". New York Post. Retrieved 2008-10-03.
- ^ The Howard Stern TV Shows: Doomsday
- ^ The Howard Stern TV Shows: Howard Stern: The High School Years
- ^ Kurtz, Howard (December 11, 2005). "Stern on Satellite: A Bruised Flower, Blossoming Anew". The Washington Post. p. D01. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
- ^ Sirius Satellite Radio Inc · 8-K · For 10/1/04
- ^ "Howard Stern & Co. Score $200M Payout". CNNMoney.com. 2006-01-05. Retrieved 2006-07-26.
- ^ YouTube video of Michael Powell confrontation
- ^ "Stern Gets Old Tapes, CBS Gets $2M". CBS News. 2006-05-25. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
- ^ CBS Radio files lawsuit against Stern, Sirius CBC March 1, 2006
- ^ FMQB: Howard Stern Attains Broadcast Archives From CBS Radio, Settles Suit
- ^ "Stern Gets Old Tapes, CBS Gets $2M". CBS News. May 25, 2006. Retrieved 2008-09-18.
- ^ Spade, David (May 2006). "Howard Stern New King of Satellite". Time.
- ^ "Top 100 Most Powerful Celebrities - Howard Stern". Forbes.com. June 2006.
- ^ Template:Web
References
- Stern, Howard (1993). Private Parts (1st ed.). Simon & Schuster. ISBN 978-0671880163. OCLC 28968496.
{{cite book}}
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suggested) (help) - Colford, Paul (1997). Howard Stern: King of All Media (2nd ed.). St. Martin's Press. ISBN 978-0312962210.
Further reading
- Stern, Howard (1995). Miss America (1st ed.). ReganBooks. ISBN 978-0060391676. OCLC 33432817.
{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|origdate=
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suggested) (help) - Lucaire, Luigi (1997). Howard Stern, A to Z: A Totally Unauthorized Guide. St. Martin's Griffin. ISBN 978-0312151447.
- Kamalipour, Yahya R. (2001). Media, Sex, Violence, and Drugs in the Global Village. Rowman & Littlefield. ISBN 978-0742500617.
{{cite book}}
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suggested) (help) - Luerssen, John (2009). AMERICAN ICON: The HOWARD STERN Reader. Lulu. ISBN 978-0557042043.
External links
- American actor-politicians
- American atheists
- American comedians
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- American talk radio hosts
- American television talk show hosts
- Boston University alumni
- Jewish atheists
- Jewish comedians
- American libertarians
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- New York City radio personalities
- Obscenity controversies
- People from Jackson Heights, Queens
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- Living people