The long‑running animated series South Park has announced a tongue‑in‑cheek rebranding, calling its new season “South America.” The creators, Matt Stone and Trey Parker, posted a statement on their official social‑media accounts, noting that the change was inspired by the “bravery and patriotism” of tech giants Apple and Google.
This move is a clear homage to U.S. President Donald Trump's recent naming stunts, including a 2026 executive order to rename Lake Ontario as Lake America and last year’s push to call the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America.
South Park’s name change came just after the show secured its first Emmy award for Outstanding Animated Program, giving the series a new platform to amplify its political satire. While the creators remain playful about whether the new title will stick permanently, the post shows a sign where the word “Park” is replaced with “America,” illustrated with a dramatic backdrop.
The announcement also praised Paramount‑Skydance, the parent company of the series, and referenced the massive media merger approved by the Trump administration—a $111 billion deal that has since been paused over antitrust concerns.
Illustratively, the creators released an image depicting a stylised Donald Trump with the caption “You finally got your Emmy,” further cementing their reputation for sharp political jabs. The next season of South Park will premiere on 16 September, offering fresh episodes where the new title may take center stage.
For context, Apple Maps responded to the same Lake Ontario naming order by updating the map label to Lake America, revealing a pattern where popular tech platforms adopted government‑mandated spelling changes. The Gulf of Mexico renaming was rejected by Mexico, who argued a single country cannot unilaterally rename a shared body of water.
South Park has a long history of mocking Trump's policies, with the White House previously dismissing the show in 2021 as “fourth‑rate.” The series is known for pushing the envelope in political satire, often sparking controversy and debate.
Fans now await the next episodes, curious whether the new name will enhance the show’s satirical edge or simply serve as a temporary campaign of jests; the 29th season is set to further explore themes of American politics and public perception.
