Shock jock trolls listeners with a wild gag before revealing it was all part of the act

A Surprise Morning Move

September 8, 2025: On a recent Monday broadcast, Howard Stern orchestrated a daring prank to shake up his SiriusXM listeners. The show kicked off with Bravo star Andy Cohen seemingly taking over the airwaves, as Cohen quipped about launching a new channel named “Andy 100” and hinted that Stern might be stepping down. Fans were left in suspense as the segment dressed up real rumors in comedic flair.

The Truth Comes Out (Spoiler: Stern’s Staying)

Not long after Cohen’s tongue-in-cheek takeover, Stern returned to the studio and revealed the entire stunt was a setup. He reassured listeners that he wasn’t exiting the show and thanked Cohen for participating in the gag. Stern also used the moment to quell recent rumors about his departure, explaining his absence was due to a lingering illness and not ongoing contract disputes.

Fan Reactions: A Mixed Bag

Listeners were divided in their reactions: some found the bit hilarious and brilliantly executed, while others felt tricked, describing it as yet another of Stern’s attention-seeking moves. What was undeniable, though, was the emotional rollercoaster it took fans on—some confessed to literal breakdowns in their kitchens.

Behind the Prank: Contract Talks and Comebacks

This theatrical moment emerged amid speculation about Stern’s future with SiriusXM, as his contract negotiations continued and rumors of a possible reduced schedule swirled. By ending the show with this high-profile prank, Stern effectively redirected conversation—from speculation about his exit to one of his most memorable bits in years.