The popular and long running series South Park is set to air for yet a few more seasons as the production which is owned by the Viacom network has just signed an agreement for renewal. It is set to run for three more years and continue through the year 2019, but can it make it to the thirty year mark? This is a question that is going through the minds of many loyal viewers who have truly made the hit TV series a regular part of their lives. We think that it is not only possible, but also highly likely and here is why:
Comedy Central support
Comedy Central pulls a lot of weight and they have made a commitment for the three year renewal that will carry the comedy series closer towards that goal. South Park breaks all of the rules and carelessly breaks societal taboos with a ribald humor that may not be for everyone, but it certainly does appeal to a large number of viewers who show no signs of losing interest. While some shows simply reach the limits of what they can do with their characters and the infusion of new subject matter, this is not the case with South Park. The writers are skillful and using current world problems as the fodder for their subject matter. This helps to keep the show interesting and it even serves to bring new viewers on board. Once viewed, you’ll know if it’s something that appeals to you. Those who appreciate the off-beat humor are addicted after just one episode.
Why is South Park such a success?
The characters often find themselves in moral dilemmas and have to make decisions about whether or not they are going to allow human nature to take full control of if they are going to attempt to temper their actions for the sake of fitting in with societal expectations. We see South Park as one of the most realistic depictions of the human condition around. Does it cross moral boundaries? That depends on your morals and values. Regardless of personal opinions, the intent of the series is to deliver a shocking look at reality, sometimes at its very worst and occasionally at its very best. We get a good dose of reality with the series and this is refreshing. The characters use language that is most commonly used behind closed doors and part of the reason that the plots are so funny is that most of us at one time or another have done the same types of things. The difference is that most of us wouldn’t admit to it in public.
Breaking down barriers
You can take most of the episodes and find some lesson to be learned. We laughed insanely as the crippled kids fought each other. While some would shake their heads, this unusual display took a serious matter and laid it out in open view for the world to see. Is it really that humorous to see two handicapped kids fighting? While our public persona would declare that it is really quite disturbing, in private, we’re laughing our asses off and this is a major part of the attraction for the series. It tramples over political correctness and for those who have grown weary of the confusing signals that a changing and evolving society is sending out with regard to “PC” it’s a chance to let down and be yourselves without the overriding sense of condemnation levied by those who feel that they are morally superior.
Influences on society
If South Park accomplishes anything it is that it allows people the freedom to laugh at things that some would declare to be “not funny.” In among the strong political messages that it is sending, it is giving us the chance to extend ourselves pretty far beyond “priorities” and the writers are truly expressing their freedom of speed through each story line. Do you have to agree with the messages to enjoy it? This is one of the best things about the series. there is something that will touch everyone in one sense or another. It’s allowing us to laugh at the things that people get so very uptight about. Perhaps many of us know that this is a positive influence on our society and that when we can learn to laugh at ourselves instead of getting uptight, life will be a lot better.
The future of South Park
As it stands right now, the two writers, Parker and Stone have every intention of continuing to write and to direct South Park episodes while keeping the core cast of four interesting characters together. We’ve seen some important characters come and go, such as Chef, who is still missed by fans. There is no indication that they plan to slow down but rather, they’ve committed to the additional three years so we know that the series will run at least that long. South Park is a tremendous ratings booster. Why would anyone want to terminate a money maker that is still churning out relevant subject matter? We believe that the South Park series will continue to run at least for another three years and who knows beyond that.
Final thoughts
South Park is quickly approaching the twentieth anniversary of their first episode. It has weathered many storms with regard to the controversial subject matter that is aired on a regular basis. There is every reason to believe that the South Park series will continue and it would not be surprising if it goes on for another ten years and perhaps even surpasses the success enjoyed by the Simpsons. Who knows? Maybe we will get to see the South Park series import new and relevant subject matter for another decade. There are quite a few fans who don’t have a problem with this idea. It is our opinion that South Park is a timely TV series and it has been since it’s inception nearly two decades ago. It would not surprise loyal fans to see the show return for more contract renewals until it reaches the thirty year mark.
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