Not your usual pairing? A scene from South Park’s Sermon on the ’Mount. Photo: Comedy Central
Paramount has landed in a tough spot recently. The studio paid Donald Trump $16 million to settle a lawsuit, even though many believed they could have won. This came just before the company needed approval for an $8 billion merger. The timing has sparked strong reactions.
TV Hosts Speak Out
Stephen Colbert, host of a major late-night show, didn’t hold back. He called the settlement “a big fat bribe,” which led to his show being pulled off-air. Jon Stewart also hit out at Paramount on his comedy show. With the help of a gospel choir, he led the crowd in loudly chanting “f*** you” to the company.
South Park Returns With Fury
Then came the return of South Park. The show launched its 27th season with an episode titled Sermon on the ’Mount. The episode didn’t hold back. It mocked both Paramount and Trump harshly. Trump is shown as a ridiculous cartoon figure. Even his talking penis appears in multiple scenes, including one where it's shown in photo-realistic detail.
The Episode's Main Plot
In the episode, Cartman gets upset when Trump cuts funding for public radio. He listens to NPR not because he agrees with it, but because he finds it funny. Soon, a cartoon version of Trump enters the story. He acts like a dictator and keeps telling everyone to “Relax, guy.” He’s also seen in bed with Satan and sues people constantly.
Jesus Issues a Warning
Later, Jesus returns to speak to the town. He tells everyone to stay quiet and not upset Trump. “You guys saw what happened to CBS,” he says, referring to Colbert’s cancelled show. Jesus warns that Trump has too much power—he can sue anyone and take bribes.
South Park’s Big Finish
The people of South Park panic. They decide to avoid trouble by praising Trump nonstop. The episode ends with a bizarre video. A deepfake version of Trump walks through the desert and collapses. His penis then speaks, saying, “I’m Donald J Trump and I approve this message.” A voiceover adds, “His penis is teeny tiny, but his love for us is large.”
What's at Stake for Paramount
The episode seems like a direct challenge. If Trump sued over a short news segment and got $16 million, what will he do now? Will Paramount stand its ground or fold again? The company is in a tough spot. It signed a $1.5 billion deal with the creators of South Park, making it harder to back away. With the merger still pending, any wrong step could hurt even more.
One Season to Watch
This season of South Park promises to be bold and risky. The show isn’t holding anything back. Whether Paramount supports it or caves in again will be worth watching.
