Howard Stern, the self-proclaimed "King of All Media," has cultivated a public persona built on unfiltered honesty and a willingness to explore the most intimate aspects of life. While his on-air discussions often delve into controversial territory, his personal romantic journey reveals a more traditional path, marked by two significant, long-term relationships that have shaped his life and public image. From his college romance to his enduring marriage, Stern's love life reflects a man who, despite his shock-jock reputation, values deep connection and commitment.
Stern's first significant relationship began in college with Alison Berns. The two met at Boston University and dated for four years before tying the knot. They were both 24 years old when they married on June 4, 1978, at Temple Ohabei Shalom in Brookline, Massachusetts. Berns, who was Stern's first real girlfriend, was an integral part of his early life and supported him through his rise in the radio industry, even appearing on his show occasionally.
Over their two-decade marriage, Howard and Alison Berns welcomed three daughters: Emily Beth (born 1983), Debra Jennifer (born 1986), and Ashley Jade (born 1993). Their marriage lasted 21 years, a period during which Stern's career skyrocketed to national prominence. However, the pressures of his demanding career and evolving personal life eventually led to their separation in 1999, with their divorce finalized in 2001. Stern has publicly discussed the difficulties of this period, including seeking therapy to navigate the changes and maintain a relationship with his daughters.
Following his separation from Alison, Stern briefly entered the dating scene. During this time, he was linked to several public figures, including model Angie Everhart and actress Robin Givens. His short-lived romance with Robin Givens garnered some attention, with Givens famously stating in a 2019 interview on Watch What Happens Live that Stern was a "magnificent lover" and their time together was "all good," despite his on-air jokes about his own anatomy. These brief relationships marked a transitional period for Stern as he navigated life as a single man after a long marriage.
A pivotal moment in Howard Stern's romantic history came in 2000 when he met Beth Ostrosky. Their fateful first encounter occurred at a dinner party where Beth was on a blind date with someone else, whom she found "obnoxious." Howard, noticing her across the table, was immediately captivated, later writing in his memoir, "There was this light around her. She was just glowing." They began dating in April 2000, marking the beginning of what would become his second long-term and highly public marriage.
After seven years of dating, Howard Stern proposed to Beth Ostrosky on February 13, 2007, the night before Valentine's Day. Their wedding took place on October 3, 2008, at Le Cirque restaurant in New York City, with celebrity friends and family in attendance. Beth, an accomplished actress, model, author, and passionate animal rights activist, quickly became a beloved figure to Stern's audience and a significant presence in his life, often discussed on his radio show.
Their marriage has been characterized by mutual admiration and public displays of affection, often contrasting with Stern's earlier, more private approach to relationships. Beth Stern has been a steadfast partner, supporting Howard through various career milestones and personal changes, including his shift to SiriusXM and his more introspective approach to life. They frequently share glimpses of their life together, particularly their shared passion for animal rescue, which has become a central part of their public identity.
Over the years, the couple has openly discussed their relationship, often dispelling rumors of trouble. In a 2019 interview, Beth Stern affirmed their strong bond, stating she'd enjoyed "20 years of marital bliss" and was "setting the record straight." Howard, in his book Howard Stern Comes Again, similarly expressed his profound love and admiration for Beth, reflecting, "Sometimes I'll look at her and think, 'Is this really happening? How could this person love me?' I guess that's the definition of a dream girl, and 19 years in, I still feel that way about her." Their relationship has evolved into a testament to enduring love and partnership, showcasing a softer, more devoted side of the iconic radio personality.