The 2003 archives of The Howard Stern Show represent a critical turning point in the program's history. During this year, the show reached a peak in its battle with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) while solidifying the legendary "Artie Lange era". Major Highlights & Events Artie Lange's Growth
: Having joined in late 2001, Artie Lange became a central comedic force by 2003. A standout wholesome moment occurred when he spontaneously sang with during their in-studio visit. Wack Pack Evolution
: The year featured heavy involvement from the "Wack Pack," including frequent appearances by Beetlejuice, Jeff the Drunk, and High Pitch Erik. JD Harmeyer's Debut
: JD Harmeyer, who would become a long-term staffer and fan favourite, made his first appearance on the show in 2003. The Las Vegas Trip howard stern archive 2003
: In May 2003, the show travelled to Las Vegas for a week of remote broadcasts featuring guests like Joey Buttafuoco and various Wack Packers. Regulatory Battles
2003 was one of the most contentious years for the show regarding federal regulation: Record Fines
: The FCC intensified its crackdown on "indecency," eventually totalling over $2.5 million in fines against stations carrying the show by 2004. Clear Channel Removal The 2003 archives of The Howard Stern Show
: The mounting pressure led to Clear Channel (now iHeartMedia) permanently removing the show from its stations in early 2004 following a series of fines for indecent content. The Move to Satellite
: The hostile environment in 2003-2004 directly precipitated Stern's decision to sign a historic $500 million contract
with Sirius Satellite Radio in late 2004, leaving terrestrial radio behind. Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press Notable Guests in 2003 A standout wholesome moment occurred when he spontaneously
For collectors and re-listeners, 2003 offers a treasure trove of legendary bits:
John Melendez was on his way out to The Tonight Show in 2004, but 2003 was his victory lap. The archives are filled with Howard torturing John about his "celebrity status," including the relentless pursuit of famous guests for John’s man-on-the-street bits.
One of the most searched segments from this archive involves Gary Dell’Abate. Howard commissioned a puppet that looked like Gary. The ensuing interviews with the puppet, wherein the puppet revealed secrets about Mary Dell’Abate and Gary’s mother, are brutal, cruel, and hysterical. The archive captures the raw audio of Gary nearly walking off the set.