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South Park Creators Explain Trump-Focused Seasons, Cite No Corporate Interference

They say politics has become pop culture and that leaning into a perceived taboo revived ratings.

Overview

  • In a new New York Times interview, Trey Parker and Matt Stone say what began as a single parody evolved after they found a sustained "vein of comedy."
  • The pair describe speaking out against the current administration as a new taboo and reiterate that the show targets any perceived extremism, not one side.
  • They note their decision to spotlight the president coincided with a Paramount–Skydance merger that needed government approval, adding they wanted to show editorial independence.
  • Despite speculation about pressure, the creators say Paramount has not censored the series and is letting them "do whatever we want."
  • Ratings have surged, with the Season 27 premiere drawing about 5.9 million viewers and recent months more than doubling 2023 levels, even as the White House publicly criticized the show; new episodes are scheduled through December.