In a recent turn of events, the creators of South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, have publicly criticized the ongoing merger between Skydance and Paramount Global, which they claim is negatively impacting their show.
‘South Park’ Creators Criticize Skydance-Paramount Merger
South Park season 27 has faced delays from Comedy Central due to ongoing disputes over streaming rights between the creators and Paramount Global, the channel’s parent company. Trey Parker and Matt Stone are vocal about their frustrations regarding this situation.
Creators’ Response to the Delay
Parker and Stone have expressed their dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs, referring to the merger as a “shitshow.” In a tweet from South Park’s official X profile, they stated, “This merger is a shitshow and it’s fucking up South Park. We are at the studio working on new episodes and we hope the fans get to see them somehow.”
New Premiere Date
The highly anticipated season 27 of South Park is now set to premiere on Wednesday, July 23 at 10 p.m. ET/PT, marking a two-week delay. The merger between David Ellison’s Skydance and Paramount Global is expected to close by July 6, although this deadline may be extended.
Legal Threats Over Streaming Rights
The press release announcing the rescheduling coincides with ongoing disputes over the streaming rights of the animated series. As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Parker and Stone, through their attorney, have threatened legal action against Paramount. They accuse incoming president Jeff Shell of interfering with their contract negotiations with Warner Bros. Discovery and Netflix.
See More ...
Current Streaming Deal
Paramount has two years remaining on its $900 million deal for South Park’s digital rights, with the series streaming on Paramount+. Parker and Stone believe that Shell is attempting to undermine competing bids from WBD and Netflix to maintain the status quo.
Legal Demands and Interference
In a letter obtained by THR, Park County, the entertainment company run by Parker and Stone, demanded that Skydance and Redbird Capital Partners cease their interference. The letter alleges that Shell has no authority to demand modifications to proposals from prospective bidders, which could harm their value.
Conclusion
As South Park continues to navigate these challenges, fans eagerly await the new season, hoping for a resolution that allows Parker and Stone to deliver the content they are known for.
