Chuckle, Breweyez, Stern's listeners are in the millions, and he's been # 1 for years and years and years, in almost ALL radio markets he enters. His typical audience is professional men in traffic on their way to work, aged 25-54, (not people w/ a 2 digit IQ). He is still on the air, but just not on the 6 clearchannel markets. He is still on Viacom, and many other smaller networks.
I agree that Caddyshack is a classic comedy, but would suggest that perhaps the majority of the radio market would say Howard is, too, (based on the ratings).
Cuttergallery means Stern revolutionized radio by making "edgy" humor commonplace. He is a large part of the reason of why people like Letterman, Mancow, even Rush Limbaugh aren't doing just "interview" shows, but actual talk shows, and are able to do so in a direct, personal fashion. He is the centerpiece target for the FCC (and more recently the religious right), and has been for years. He is one of the most imitated artists EVER. Even PBS has gone through his role in radio, (not to mention the E Hollywood station, and numerous other stations/biographers). Stern was a pioneer in this media, and this specific method of radio for over 2 decades. Longer than Caddyshack has been around, I might add (1980). Despite the fact that you respond with a "Howard who?", you HAVE heard of him... and this is in an industry that is not known for having a large number of "stand-outs" like the Hollywood business. So... He has been an Icon of radio for decades, he has written best selling books, he has written, produced, and starred in a blockbuster movie, his following is so strong is has an impact on politics, careers, and the way people think. I think the idea that you call him an untalented sensationalist is seriously flawed, and not very thought-out.
On a side note, the Ad Hominem attacks make your opinion seem ridiculous and without backing... which maybe they are...
As for exploiting the guy with a "stammer", or the "Retard"... the reciprocal argument is that he's made them superstars... Stuttering John was just hired away from Stern to be the announcer for.... wait for it.... THE TONIGHT SHOW.... (that's right, the one with Jay Leno).
Go ask the other "Wack Pack-ers" if they would give up their celebrity status for their previous anonymous lives....
Of course, you (and millions others), are entitled to your opinion about him, and his listeners. I just think it's interesting that as a golden member since 2001 you are thread crapping.