The creators of the animated series South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, have issued a sarcastic apology following backlash from the White House regarding the show’s recent episode. The premiere of the 27th season, titled “Sermon on the ‘Mount,” aired on July 24, 2025, and featured a series of provocative depictions of former President Donald Trump that sparked significant controversy.
The episode included an AI-generated image of Trump in a compromising position with Satan, alongside a narrator dubbing the president as having a “teeny-tiny” penis. The show’s irreverent approach to humor has long been a hallmark of its appeal, but this particular episode drew ire from the administration, with White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers labeling the series as a “fourth-rate show” in a pointed retort.
During a panel at Comic-Con International in San Diego, Parker addressed the uproar, stating, “we’re terribly sorry” in a tone that conveyed irony rather than sincerity. While the remark elicited laughter from the audience, it underscored the ongoing tension between the show’s creators and the political figures they parody.
In a noteworthy anecdote, Parker shared insights into the decision-making process behind the episode’s content. Initially, network executives proposed that Trump’s anatomy be blurred during the sequence. Parker recounted, “They said, ‘OK, but we’re gonna blur the penis,’ and I said, ‘No you’re not gonna blur the penis.’” Instead, the creators opted for a creative solution: giving the depiction of Trump’s penis eyes, thus allowing it to avoid being blurred entirely.
Matt Stone chimed in, explaining that this unusual decision was the result of extensive discussions among the production team. “If we put eyes on the penis, we won’t blur it,” he noted, humorously highlighting the absurdity of the situation. “That was a whole conversation with grown-up people for four days.”
As of now, the White House has not formally responded to Parker’s jest, maintaining their stance that the show is irrelevant. Nonetheless, Trump’s portrayal in the episode has drawn attention to the intersection of entertainment and politics, illustrating how animated satire can provoke real-world reactions.
The creators’ unapologetic stance is emblematic of South Park‘s longstanding tradition of pushing boundaries. With its mix of humor and sharp social commentary, the series continues to navigate the complexities of contemporary politics, making it a relevant fixture in the landscape of animated television.
While the episode has certainly generated controversy, it also serves as a reminder of the power of satire in the media. As Parker and Stone continue to create content that challenges societal norms, audiences remain captivated by their bold storytelling and willingness to tackle sensitive subjects head-on.
