‘South Park’ Ratings Surge: Kristi Noem, JD Vance Takedown Delivers Series’ Biggest Audience Since 2018

Comedy Central’s ‘South Park’ has reclaimed its place at the top of television viewership charts, posting its most-watched episode since 2018 with the second installment of its 27th season. The episode, which aired on August 6, drew 6.2 million viewers across Comedy Central and Paramount+ within its first three days, a 49% increase over the season premiere. Notably, 1.56 million of those viewers tuned in on Comedy Central, with the coveted 18-to-49 demographic making up the overwhelming majority.

According to industry trackers, the episode achieved a 1.531 rating among adults 18-49 (live+3), representing a 54% increase from the season’s premiere. The surge comes as the irreverent show doubled down on political satire, with creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone targeting prominent Republican figures and the current political landscape.

The episode, titled “Got a Nut,” zeroed in on U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and Senator JD Vance, both known for their hardline conservative stances. By lampooning Noem’s policies and Vance’s public persona, ‘South Park’ sparked a fresh wave of public debate about the role of comedy in critiquing those in power.

This season’s sharp political focus follows a series premiere that made headlines for its incendiary depiction of former President Donald Trump, including surreal visual gags and explicit satire. The show’s willingness to confront controversial topics has fueled its resurgence, with audiences tuning in to witness how ‘South Park’ navigates an especially polarized era in American politics.

The ratings milestone coincides with broader changes at Comedy Central’s parent company, Paramount. After a high-profile acquisition by Skydance Media, Paramount has invested heavily in the “South Park” franchise, including a $1.5 billion, five-year streaming deal that brought the show exclusively to Paramount+. Paramount+ reported double-digit audience gains for the premiere and second episode, suggesting that the show’s appeal is expanding beyond traditional cable audiences.

This business expansion comes amid broader industry conversations about creative freedom, with Paramount recently settling a lawsuit over allegations involving political coverage in its news division. The settlement was viewed as a strategic move to clear regulatory hurdles, further underscoring the business stakes tied to politically charged content.