In a surprising turn of events, a former employee of the iconic Howard Stern Show has filed a lawsuit against the Stern couple, claiming that the environment at their Southampton, New York, estate was hostile and abusive. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, names Howard Stern, the legendary radio host, and his wife, Beth Stern, as the parties responsible for a toxic workplace that allegedly led to the plaintiff’s departure and emotional distress.
The Rise of Leslie Kuhn at The Howard Stern Show
Leslie Kuhn began her tenure with SiriusXM’s The Howard Stern Show in September 2022 as an office manager. Her role involved coordinating schedules, managing communications, and ensuring the day‑to‑day operations of the show ran smoothly. In January 2024, after demonstrating strong organizational skills and a keen understanding of the show’s dynamics, Kuhn was promoted to Howard Stern’s executive assistant—a position that placed her in close proximity to the host and his inner circle.
During her time as executive assistant, Kuhn was tasked with a range of responsibilities that extended beyond the studio. She handled confidential matters, liaised with talent and management, and was often the point of contact for logistical arrangements. Her work required a high degree of discretion, professionalism, and adaptability—qualities that the Sterns had initially praised in her performance.
The Relocation to Southampton and Expanded Duties
Only four months after her promotion, Kuhn received a directive that would change the trajectory of her career. Howard Stern requested that she relocate to their Southampton mansion, a sprawling estate that serves as both a private residence and a hub for the couple’s personal and philanthropic activities. The move was presented as an opportunity to support the household’s operations, but it also marked a significant shift in her day‑to‑day responsibilities.
According to court documents, Beth Stern explained that Kuhn would be assisting with:
- Managing the staff of the mansion, including hiring, scheduling, and performance evaluations.
- Setting staffing schedules and overseeing payroll for the household crew.
- Handling general household operations, such as maintenance, security, and logistics.
- Supporting Beth’s extensive animal rescue and fostering initiatives, which involve coordinating with shelters, arranging veterinary care, and managing adoption events.
These duties extended well beyond the typical scope of an executive assistant’s role at a radio show, requiring Kuhn to navigate a complex environment that blended personal, professional, and philanthropic responsibilities.
Beth Stern’s Animal Advocacy and Household Operations
Beth Stern is widely recognized for her commitment to animal welfare. She serves as the national spokesperson for the North Shore Animal League America, the world’s largest no‑kill shelter and rescue organization. In addition to her advocacy work, Beth played a pivotal role in establishing the Bianca’s Furry Friends Feline Adoption Center—a state‑of‑the‑art facility that opened recently at the North Shore Animal League’s campus.
Her involvement in animal rescue extends to the household level, where she manages a large feline rescue and fostering program. This program requires meticulous coordination, from intake procedures to medical care and eventual adoption. The responsibilities placed on Kuhn, as outlined in the lawsuit, included direct oversight of these operations, adding a layer of personal expectation to her professional duties.
Legal Claims and Allegations of Hostility
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