Media personality Howard Stern and his wife Beth Stern are facing legal action from a former employee who alleges she was subjected to a hostile work environment during her time working for the couple.
The lawsuit was filed by Leslie Kuhn, who previously worked as an office manager for SiriusXM’s The Howard Stern Show before transitioning into a more personal role within Stern’s household.
Employment Timeline and Role Expansion
According to court documents, Kuhn began working in September 2022 as an office manager and later became Stern’s executive assistant in January 2024.
Her responsibilities reportedly expanded significantly after she was asked to relocate to the couple’s residence in Southampton.
In addition to assisting Howard Stern professionally, Kuhn claims she was tasked with:
- Managing household staff
- Scheduling employees
- Overseeing payroll
- Handling general household operations
The lawsuit also states that she was expected to assist Beth Stern with her animal rescue and fostering activities, which allegedly added further pressure to her role.
Allegations of Hostile Work Environment
Kuhn alleges that her working conditions became increasingly difficult, ultimately creating a hostile work environment.
According to the filing, her termination on February 26 followed ongoing workplace concerns.
The lawsuit claims that the dismissal was linked to:
- A hostile and stressful work environment
- Excessive pressure from household responsibilities
- Disorganized business and accounting practices
- Challenges related to on-site animal rescue operations
Kuhn further alleges that the environment was “untenable,” particularly due to the scale of responsibilities placed on her.
Dispute Over Non-Disclosure Agreement
A key aspect of the lawsuit involves a disputed separation agreement that allegedly included a non-disclosure clause.
Kuhn claims that:
- The agreement was never formally presented to her for signing
- She never signed any non-disclosure agreement
- The document was therefore invalid
The filing argues that the confidentiality agreement was “fabricated” and should be declared legally unenforceable.
Legal Action and Demands
As part of the lawsuit, Kuhn is seeking:
- A declaration that the alleged non-disclosure agreement is void
- Compensation for legal costs
- Recognition of her claims regarding workplace conditions
The case may proceed further as the court examines the validity of the claims and supporting evidence.
Response Pending from Stern Representatives
At the time of reporting, representatives for Howard Stern and Beth Stern have been contacted for comment.
No official response has yet been made public regarding the allegations.
Broader Implications
The case highlights ongoing conversations around:
- Workplace conditions in private households
- Employee rights in high-profile environments
- Legal enforceability of non-disclosure agreements
As the legal process unfolds, it may also raise questions about the expectations placed on employees working in combined professional and personal roles.
The lawsuit against Howard Stern and Beth Stern adds to a growing number of workplace-related legal disputes involving high-profile figures.
While the allegations remain to be tested in court, the case underscores the importance of clear employment boundaries and fair working conditions — even in private and celebrity environments.
Why are Howard Stern and Beth Stern being sued?
They are being sued by a former assistant who alleges she experienced a hostile work environment and wrongful termination.
Who filed the lawsuit?
The lawsuit was filed by Leslie Kuhn, a former executive assistant and office manager.
What are the main allegations?
The claims include workplace hostility, excessive responsibilities, disorganized operations, and issues related to a disputed non-disclosure agreement.
Has Howard Stern responded to the lawsuit?
As of now, no official response has been made public by Howard Stern or his representatives.
