Today, Explained South Park is not your friend
154 snips
Aug 20, 2025 
Brian Stelter, Chief Media Analyst at CNN, and Nicholas Kwa, Culture Writer for Vulture, dive into the latest season of South Park, dissecting its razor-sharp satire targeting Trump and political figures alike. They explore the show's evolution, noting its bold critiques and refusal to align with any political faction. The discussion reveals how South Park maintains its status as a cultural touchstone, navigating the complexities of free speech and artistic expression in a changing media landscape.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
South Park Targets Power Directly
- Brian Stelter argues South Park is exceptionally relevant because it attacks the current ultimate power, Donald Trump.
- The show uses exaggerated satire to depict Trump's actions and impact on institutions like media and schools.
Trump In Bed With Satan Scene
- Brian Stelter describes a memorable South Park scene showing Trump in bed with Satan and the show's crude mockery of his physique.
- The gag exemplifies how the show uses shock to directly humiliate powerful figures.
Noem Episode Sparked Outrage
- Stelter recounts South Park's ruthless jokes about Kristi Noem, including resurfacing an old dog-shooting scandal.
- Noem publicly condemned the episode as lazy and personal, showing real political pushback.