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Stern won't be leaving Infinity anytime soon

A high-level source at Infinity tells us that as much as Howard Stern believes he's going to be pulled off of his show, it won't be happening any time in the near future. And in addition, Infinity will be defending him: "He's not going to satellite - - first of all, he can't. He's under contract with us for two more years. So, I mean, it's not even an issue...[and] we're going to defend him."

It also turns out we're not the only ones hearing that the FCC will be cracking down on satellite radio indecency as well (3/8 RBR Daily Epaper #46).

Continued the Infinity source: "And you know what, the FCC will probably wind up...the satellite guys, when this is all said and done, if there is any change in the rules, they are probably going to be regulated under our rules."

RBR observation:

Good. Infinity plans to stand behind Howard. No matter what the FCC finds to fine Stern, it still will pale in comparison to the money he's made, and continues to make, for the Viacom unit. When Howard realizes Infinity is going to stand behind him after all, he'll likely focus his ranting more on the FCC, Bush and Right-wingers and less on traditional radio. Stern said on his radio show yesterday he hopes his show gets pulled - - so he'd be free to travel 'round the country with anti-Bush and anti-Right wing voting rallies. Said Stern: "A source at the FCC tells me [FCC Chairman] Michael Powell is freaking out right now. He realizes he still has to fine me, but knows it could all backfire for him and the Republicans."

Stern should have no beef with Infinity or anyone for that matter. He needed the publicity and he could not have set himself up as the self proclaimed King of Radio even if he dressed in drag and gave Chairman Powell a dozen of roses. We've said it before 'Zen Master' Karmazin's first call was probably to Clear Channel thanking them for pulling Stern off the air. Now Stern broadcasting he has weeks left, even if he's not booking, has made him a more controversial price tag for his agent when negotiations arise with any company. It's all about the money!