Howard Stern Reflects on Controversial Past: A Journey of Evolution and Change

In a recent revelation, Howard Stern has addressed a television special from 1993 in which he appeared in blackface and used the N-word multiple times.

The video resurfaced after Donald Trump Jr. retweeted an article containing the sketch, expressing his shock at the offensive content.

During his SiriusXM show on Monday, the 66-year-old radio personality acknowledged the controversial performance, stating, “The s— I did was f—— crazy.”

Stern admitted that he no longer recognizes the person he was back then, but he takes responsibility for his actions.

He also emphasized that he never intended to align himself with hate groups, as they too believed he was against them.

The sketch in question parodied a 1993 incident involving actor Ted Danson, who wore blackface during a Friar's Club roast of his then-girlfriend Whoopi Goldberg.

In Stern's parody, he portrayed Danson, now 72, by wearing blackface and using the N-word liberally.

Danson had previously addressed his own use of blackface, describing it as a regrettable moment in his life during a 2008 interview with NPR.

Stern acknowledged that his style of comedy has since evolved, explaining, “As a young man, I wanted to succeed on the radio and I wanted to go f—— crazy.”

However, he revealed that therapy helped him realize the need for change in order to pursue a happier and more fulfilling life.

Over the years, Stern transformed his show and shifted away from the explicit humor that defined his earlier career.

Some fans of his previous controversial style may feel disillusioned, perceiving him as having sold out or lost his edge.

Through therapy, Stern grasped the importance of balancing his personal and professional life.

He recognized that being completely outrageous 24/7 was not conducive to maintaining healthy relationships with his children and spouse.

In his own words, he “evolved and changed” to become a better communicator.

While Stern did not offer an apology for the sketch itself, he admitted that if given the chance to redo it, he would approach it differently.

Reflecting on the past, he cringes at the person he used to be and expressed his dislike for viewing his old content.

During his show, Stern also criticized Trump Jr. for bringing up a decade-old skit amidst the current COVID-19 pandemic and nationwide protests against racial injustice and police brutality.

Stern contrasted his own growth and willingness to seek therapy with what he perceived as the Trump family's resistance to change.

In closing, Stern acknowledged that his controversial moments are not new or unknown, as they have been widely documented throughout his career.

He stressed that he was once the craziest personality on radio and that his show will forever hold that distinction.

As we strive to combat systemic racism, it is important to consider supporting organizations such as Campaign Zero, ColorofChange.org, and the National Cares Mentoring Movement.

These groups are actively working to address racial disparities and provide support to black communities in various ways.