Controversial radio shock jock Howard Stern was hired by NBC as the new judge of the network’s popular talent competition series “America’s Got Talent.”
57-year-old Stern — who is known for the sexually explicit interviews he does on his show, as well as his raunchy sense of humor and for his satirical comments on religion, race and other hot button topics — will replace Piers Morgan on the judges panel when the show returns for a 7th season in the summer of 2012.
“Howard Stern’s larger-than-life personality will bring a thrilling new dynamic to ‘America’s Got Talent’ starting this summer,” NBC alternative programming chief Paul Telegdy said in a statement. “He’s a proven innovator and his track record in broadcasting is truly remarkable. Howard is very passionate about this show and is fully committed to its future success.”
Stern confirmed the news himself this morning on his radio show.
“I take judging very seriously,” Stern said, adding “in order to up my credibility, I will wear a suit.”
