Fans of the iconic animated series “South Park” will see a significant change in where they can view the show, as HBO Max will no longer host new or old episodes starting August 5. This comes as creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone have solidified a deal with Paramount+, designating it as the exclusive streaming home for the beloved show.
As of August 5, HBO Max subscribers can still catch the show, but by the end of the day, “South Park,” which has been available on HBO’s streaming service since its launch in 2020, will no longer be accessible there. This move accompanies the premiere of the show’s 27th season, which kicked off on July 23 with a provocative episode that targeted former President Donald Trump, highlighting his propensity for lawsuits and presenting him in a satirical light alongside Satan.
The controversial nature of the episode ignited a statement from The White House, which suggested that “South Park” has lost its relevance over the years. However, the ratings tell a different story, as the season premiere became the most-watched since 1999, showcasing a remarkable 68% increase compared to the Season 26 debut.
Moving forward, the next episode of “South Park” is scheduled to air on August 6 at 10 p.m. EST on Comedy Central and will be available on Paramount+ the following day, with all episodes now accessible on the new platform. This shift would allow dedicated fans to enjoy the series alongside its latest offerings, emphasizing Paramount+’s commitment to hosting the show’s full catalog.
Overall, the move appears to be a strategic decision for both the creators and the streaming platform, potentially reaching new audiences while also maintaining the show’s reputation for incisive social commentary.