Stern

Howard Stern revolutionized the medium of radio, creating his own brand of ‘reality radio’. He changed the format of nearly every station he came to, taking his local NYC radio program to #1 and syndicating it across the country to millions and millions of listeners. He had his own #1 rated cable television show. He had the #1 movie in the country. And yet for all of his successes, all of these accomplishments, Howard Stern’s name is still dirt.

There are very few people in history whose name alone can elicit such anger and hostility out of people. Mention ‘Howard Stern’ to somebody and they will probably describe him with words like ‘racist’ and ‘pig’ and ‘disgusting’. Most of these people will have probably never heard his show. Howard isn’t great because he’s gross or sexist or whatever else. He’s great because he’s funny. He’s a good interviewer. He’s interesting. My favorite part of the show is the news, where I can hear his take on recent social and political issues. I think he’s an intelligent guy and very often I find myself agreeing with him.

But the storms of publicity he stirred early in his career to help promote his show have done irrevocable damage to his image later among non-listeners. I don't think he cares, but it's unfortunate to know Howard Stern will never be properly recognized for his accomplishments, talents, and his contributions to radio and other media.