South Park has made headlines once again as it kicked off its much-anticipated 27th season this week. The season premiere stirred up significant controversy by portraying former President Donald Trump with a "teeny tiny" penis, a depiction that has sparked widespread discussion among fans and critics alike. During a recent appearance at Comic-Con, creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone addressed the intense reactions to the episode, humorously acknowledging the buzz surrounding it.
When asked about the public's response, Parker jokingly expressed, “We’re terribly sorry,” highlighting their lighthearted approach to the uproar. While the creators chose not to delve into specifics, they did reveal that a significant portion of the episode was finalized just three days before its airing. “We were like, ‘I don’t know if people are going to like this,’” Parker explained, referencing their brainstorming sessions that involved current events. “We were reading stuff in the newspaper, and were like, ‘Let’s put that in there!’”
The episode, titled “Sermon on the ‘Mount”, takes aim at Trump’s tendency to use lawsuits as a means to silence media outlets and political adversaries. It also critiques the growing influence of religion in America’s public schools, as well as issues of government censorship and corporate capitulation to outside pressures. One of the most striking scenes features Trump depicted in bed with a poorly endowed penis, attempting to seduce Satan. A character in the scene humorously remarks, “I can’t even see anything, it’s so small.”
Parker shared that much of the feedback they received from Paramount revolved around the portrayal of Trump's anatomy, which was showcased both in the animated scene and a deep-fake public service announcement featuring a nude Trump. “They were like, ‘We’re gonna blur the penis,’ and we’re like, ‘No, you’re not gonna blur the penis,’” Parker recounted. Stone chimed in, revealing an amusing discussion about whether to put eyes on the animated penis, which would prevent it from being blurred. “That was a whole conversation with grown up people for four fucking days! It’s a character,” Stone emphasized.
As the conversation at Comic-Con progressed, the duo acknowledged that they have no clear vision for how the season will unfold. Parker noted that they have never “banked” episodes for future release, indicating a spontaneous creative process. The promotional material released prior to the premiere was designed solely to satisfy the network's requirements. “We’re not doing any of that,” he stated, suggesting a commitment to spontaneity in their storytelling. Stone humorously added that future episodes will feature “no politics.” “None,” he reiterated with a smile. “None of that shit.”
The buzz surrounding the South Park premiere comes on the heels of the creators reportedly securing a staggering $1.5 billion deal with Paramount Plus. In a formal statement, Parker expressed gratitude for the opportunity, saying, “We are grateful for this opportunity and deeply honored by the trust placed in us. This is about more than a contract — it’s about our commitment to this organization, our teammates, and our fans.” He emphasized their dedication to creating something exceptional as they look to the future.
As the 27th season unfolds, fans eagerly anticipate what the creators of South Park will deliver next, especially following such a provocative season opener that has already set the tone for more bold and satirical commentary.
