Howard revealed that his hand has been forced by a story about Artie's suicide attempt in Page Six ("I was actually hoping it wouldn't come out.") and had to offer his comment: "I don't know what to think. I'm angry about it. I'm sad about it. I'm all over the place emotionally." Howard directed most of his anger at the worm who leaked the details of Artie's condition: "I'm pissed off at the shithead who got paid by – who? Page Six."
Howard hoped the story would go away and allow Artie to heal privately: "This is a family matter. I don't know what to do. I don't know what to say...just remember who Artie is and what a wonderful guy he is...he's wrestling with some serious stuff...I only wish him well." Howard tried reading the Page Six item, but stopped after just eight words: "I just feel sick about this. I don't even wanna read it."
THE STERN SHOW SENDS LOVE TO THE LANGE FAMILY
Howard repeated: "I don't want this to sound like a eulogy. Artie's alive, by the way. It was a suicide attempt." Howard added that he was unsure of Artie's future with the show ("I haven't spoken with Artie. Robin has. Tim has...I'm just freaked out. I don't know what to do. I figure if Artie wants to talk to me he'll call me.") and offered one final comment: "My thoughts go to his mother and his sister who I'm sure are in great pain."