Howard Stern considered retirement after doubting skills

Howard Stern almost quit his radio show last year because he was convinced he was a "horrible" host.

The controversial shock jock admitted when his $500 million five-year contract with Sirius XM Radio for 'The Howard Stern Show' came up for renewal last year, he was tempted to retire but decided to sign a new five-year deal because of a "neurotic compulsion".

He said: "I came to a conclusion. My contract was up a few months ago. I really thought I was going to retire. I said, 'Why am I doing this anymore? I've proven everything I needed to prove. ... It makes me crazy.

"I hate getting up early every morning. ... I am driven by a neurotic compulsion to do that show. And it doesn't seem enjoyable. I go home every night and go, 'I did a horrible job!'"

When asked why he does it, he explained to TV talk show host Piers Morgan: "It's my identity. My ego. Like, this is who I am. This is what I do."

Howard wouldn't reveal how much his new deal with the station is worth but did admit he now gets "a little more for a little less work".

Although 57-year-old Howard is known for his controversial on air stunts - such as having a naked woman in the studio - he doesn't enjoy wild parties and instead prefers quite nights at home.

He admitted: "I don't like to go out. I don't like to leave the house. I like to stay home, but I'm fascinated by human behaviour."