South Park Launches 27th Season with Bold Critique of Trump and Paramount

In a provocative start to its 27th season, the animated series South Park has launched a scathing critique of former President Donald Trump and its parent company, Paramount Global. The premiere episode, titled 'Sermon on the Mount,' aired on July 24, 2025, just one day after South Park Digital Studios announced a landmark $1.5 billion deal with Paramount, which includes the production of 50 new episodes over the next five years and exclusive streaming rights on Paramount+.

The episode features an audacious portrayal of Trump, depicted as an animated version of his real-life self, alongside a character representing Satan. The narrative explores contentious themes, including Trump’s ongoing lawsuit against Paramount, the recent cancellation of Stephen Colbert’s late-night show, and the broader cultural implications of what the creators refer to as 'wokeness.' In a striking scene, a hyper-realistic deepfake of Trump is shown wandering in a desert while humorously addressing accusations regarding his genitalia.

The show’s biting humor is juxtaposed with serious undertones regarding the media’s relationship with political power. According to Dylan Byers, a senior correspondent at Puck, the episode serves as a bold statement against corporate interests in the entertainment industry, particularly in light of the substantial financial agreement with Paramount. Byers tweeted, 'Hard to think of anything more defiant in media & entertainment recently than Trey Parker & Matt Stone going scorched earth on Paramount in a South Park season premiere on the heels of netting a $1.5 billion deal with the very same company.'

The narrative also critiques the recent actions of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which is led by Trump appointees, as they review the merger that involves Paramount and Skydance, a firm associated with Trump ally Larry Ellison. This merger has drawn scrutiny due to its implications for media consolidation and the influence of political figures on entertainment narratives.

Historically, South Park has not shied away from political commentary. The show's creators, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, have a long-standing reputation for addressing current events and societal issues through satire. Their willingness to tackle controversial subjects was evident in this episode, which also references Paramount's previous $16 million settlement with Trump over allegations of election interference related to CBS News’s coverage during the 2020 presidential campaign.

Trump's influence on media programming has raised questions about editorial independence and the potential for self-censorship within networks eager to appease powerful political figures. The South Park episode illustrates a conflict between artistic expression and corporate interests, particularly in light of Paramount's recent controversies.

As the episode unfolds, it highlights the absurdity of the current political climate, with characters engaging in discussions about the implications of Trump's presidency and media manipulation. One notable exchange includes a character questioning the integrity of the government amid ongoing investigations concerning high-profile individuals associated with Trump, including the infamous Jeffrey Epstein. This direct confrontation with sensitive topics showcases the show's characteristic blend of humor and critique.

The implications of South Park's season premiere extend beyond mere entertainment; they reflect a broader societal discourse about the intersections of media, politics, and corporate power. As the series progresses, it will likely continue to engage with these themes, providing both commentary and satire on the current American landscape.

In conclusion, South Park's 27th season premiere not only sets the stage for a provocative exploration of contemporary issues but also raises critical questions about the role of media in shaping public discourse. The combination of financial deals and political satire creates a complex narrative that is likely to resonate with audiences navigating an increasingly polarized environment. The future of both South Park and its parent company, Paramount, remains intertwined with the evolving dynamics of media and political influence, making it a critical watch for both fans and industry analysts alike.