Movies

Paramount Picks South Park Over Colbert: Trey Parker and Matt Stone Get Big Comedy Bucks, Late Show Done

BBG News

I’m thrilled to share that I’ve witnessed the resolution of a long-standing disagreement between the brilliant minds behind South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, and Paramount Global. In an impressive move, they’ve sealed a five-year contract worth a staggering $1.5 billion, granting exclusive global streaming rights to their upcoming content on Paramount Plus. This deal also guarantees us a whopping ten new episodes each year! What a fantastic turn of events for fans like myself!

The agreement was sealed right before the late start of Season 27, which followed warnings of lawsuits from Parker and Stone. This move indicates a notable harmony between creators’ requirements and Paramount’s content planning, occurring during a time of larger structural changes within the company.

As a devoted fan, I find myself grappling with the news that my beloved “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” is set to conclude in May 2026. The decision, according to Paramount, is due solely to financial concerns, despite Colbert’s remarkable nine-season run atop network television ratings. However, it’s worth noting that both Colbert and other late-night hosts have experienced a noticeable dip in viewership, with Fox News’ “Gutfeld!” outperforming them for almost two years now. In fact, “Gutfeld!” regularly boasts ratings that would surpass those of two traditional late-night shows combined.

This shift has led some on the left to speculate that Paramount’s decision might be politically driven, given their $16 million settlement with Donald Trump over the “60 Minutes” interview and the ongoing review of their merger with Skydance Media. These circumstances have fueled claims that Paramount opted to silence its most vocal liberal voice.

A wave of backing flooded in for Stephen Colbert from various late-night hosts, with Jon Stewart criticizing Paramount on The Daily Show, calling them out for cowardice and telling them to essentially take a hike. Jimmy Fallon and others expressed their solidarity, with Fallon joking he might be the next one targeted. Meanwhile, the Writers Guild of America saw Paramount’s decision as possibly politically motivated, warning it could set a chilling effect on satirical speech. Sunny Hostin from The View went even further, stating that the potential cancellation of Stephen Colbert’s show (which has been reportedly losing $40m per year for years) could pose a threat to the U.S. Constitution.

Sunny Hostin’s take on Colbert’s departure: “When comedians face attack, it suggests a weakening of our constitutional principles.

Incredible.

— Western Lensman (@WesternLensman) July 22, 2025

A more rational perspective on this matter suggests that Paramount might be pursuing content that appeals to a broader audience – possibly due to Skydance’s influence. After all, if they were after partisan material, wouldn’t it seem strange for them to invest heavily in acquiring the rights to South Park?

Comparing these two deals hints at Paramount possibly transitioning its focus towards comedies that are less politically contentious. South Park, famously known for its satirical wit, presents its criticisms through a cartoon perspective, which might be seen as indirect and not directly targeting any specific political party, thus making it more acceptable to a wider international audience. In contrast, Colbert has been vocal in his criticism of Trump and conservative politics, recently referring to the Trump settlement as a “bribe” by Nate Silver. Despite South Park lampooning President Trump frequently, even throughout entire seasons, they have built their reputation on tackling all sides and not aligning with any particular political stance.

As a movie enthusiast, I find it intriguing to note the strategic timing. Paramount’s bold move in investing heavily into “South Park” coincides with Skydance’s plans for an $8 billion acquisition, subject to FCC and regulatory approval – a process where maintaining a neutral image could potentially yield benefits.

Meanwhile, the seemingly unstoppable ratings machine, Colbert, was surprisingly axed, sparking speculation about the company’s tolerance level for programs that carry substantial financial and political risks. This conundrum seems to find an answer in the decision to invest in “South Park.”

A whirlwind of celebrities criticizing this business move as an inappropriate gesture towards President Trump has been met with scrutiny, leaving even those normally outside the political arena, such as Weird Al and Adam Sandler, seemingly tainted by their association with such a monumental flop.

It’s somewhat disheartening to see the established group clinging together and protesting over the unfairness of a financially struggling TV show being cancelled. This is much like a sports team that denies the scoreboard, blaming the officials even when they were clearly outplayed. In this instance, South Park appears to be the victor. The consumer, too, may benefit from a bitingly humorous show that satirizes both parties. Maybe this is the release that society requires at present. It certainly seems to be what the audience desires.

So goodbye, Colbert. Welcome back, Cartman.

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2025-07-23 21:56

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