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Compounding these rumors, reports indicate that Howard’s team was visibly shaken when the news broke. During what was described as a team-building gathering at a Midtown Manhattan bar, staff members reportedly panicked and scrambled to contact longtime executive producer Gary DeAbate—commonly known as "Baba Booey." Notably, DeAbate was unresponsive at first, which insiders interpret as a sign that even Howard's trusted confidantes were caught off guard and unsure of the next steps, awaiting higher-ups’ instructions.
This internal instability reflects a broader sense of uncertainty within Howard’s camp, with many wondering whether this controversy signals the end of an era for the legendary radio host.