Joshua Rivera
Updated on: October 11, 2024 4:15 pm GMT
In a twist of fate, creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone initially had their sights set on Fox for their groundbreaking animated series, “South Park.” However, a controversial character known as Mr. Hankey led the network to pass on what would become a cultural phenomenon. This revelation sheds light not only on the inception of the iconic show but also on the creators’ current endeavors, including their recent documentary “¡Casa Bonita Mi Amor!” that chronicles their buyout of a beloved Colorado restaurant.
The Early Days of South Park
The history of “South Park” began in 1992 with an animated short film titled “The Spirit of Christmas.” Created by Parker and Stone during their time at the University of Colorado, the film featured a group of schoolboys who unwittingly animate a murderous Frosty the Snowman. The short garnered attention, leading Fox executive Brian Graden to discover it and commission a follow-up, which depicted a feud between Santa Claus and Jesus Christ.
Three years later, as excitement built for a potential series, Parker and Stone pitched their concept to Fox executives. However, during the presentation, the network took issue with Mr. Hankey—a character who is a literal talking piece of feces. Fearing that the inclusion of Mr. Hankey would tarnish their schedule, the Fox board opted to pass on “South Park.” Ironically, this decision came just after the network had greenlit less successful projects.
The Implications of Fox’s Decision
Parker and Stone’s vision for “South Park” included humor that challenged societal norms, as showcased through characters like Mr. Hankey. The creators aimed to use Mr. Hankey as a recurring character providing comedic commentary on Christmas traditions. Their insistence on maintaining this character clashed with Fox’s concerns, effectively derailing the deal.
Parker has recounted the moment they shifted their focus, telling the executives at Comedy Central, “One thing we have to know before we really go any further: how do you feel about talking poo?” This crucial inquiry demonstrated their commitment to the show’s distinctive brand of humor. Comedy Central’s willingness to embrace the unconventional paved the way for “South Park” to find its footing and flourish for the next three decades.
Current Endeavors and Future Plans
While reflecting on their past with “South Park,” Parker and Stone are also looking forward. The duo recently announced that the next season of “South Park” will not air until 2025, deliberately timed to avoid the heated political climate surrounding the upcoming presidential election. Stone expressed their fatigue with satirizing Donald Trump, stating, “We’ve tried to do South Park through four or five presidential elections… it seems like it takes outsized importance.”
As the creators explore new thematic elements for future episodes, they continue to celebrate their roots. A significant part of this journey involves their recent acquisition of Casa Bonita, a Mexican restaurant in Lakewood, Colorado. The eatery holds nostalgic value for both Parker and Stone, as it was immortalized in a notable episode of “South Park.”
Casa Bonita: From Fiction to Reality
The restaurant’s story is documented in their new film, “¡Casa Bonita Mi Amor!,” which had a premiere screening at the Telluride Film Festival. Directed by Arthur Bradford, the documentary follows the creators as they invest millions to rejuvenate the ailing business.
This personal venture not only serves as a creative continuation of their South Park legacy but also highlights their connection to Colorado. Parker and Stone reflected on how their return not only revitalizes a nostalgic aspect of their careers but also ties them back to their home state.
Community Reception and Reflection
The reception to their efforts, both in the documentary and the restaurant, contrasts sharply with their earlier experiences in Colorado. Reflecting on their past, Parker noted that when “South Park: Bigger, Longer, & Uncut” debuted in 1999, the criticism they faced from local audiences was notably harsher than from the national media.
This time around, however, they feel welcomed back. The success of “¡Casa Bonita Mi Amor!” has resonated positively within the community, further solidifying their ties and influence in Colorado.
Conclusion of an Era and Anticipation of New Ventures
Parker and Stone are looking to the future and thinking about how they feel about their home state. They know that “South Park” and their other projects still have a big effect on culture. They have chosen to move away from making fun of politics, which shows how much they’ve grown in their comedy and their lives. As fans get excited for the new episodes of “South Park,” the creators are ready to take on new challenges. This shift lets them focus on their work in a fresh way. From turning down offers from Fox to bringing new life to a beloved show, their journey shows how they’re changing as creators and making a strong mark on TV and beyond.
