They've conquered Broadway, but that doesn't mean they're finished ruling the small screen.
Comedy Central announced this morning that Trey Parker and Matt Stone have reached a deal with the network to extend "South Park" for another three seasons, into 2016.
The announcement was made via press release this morning by Comedy Central president Michele Ganeless:
The deal for three additional seasons ensures the top-rated Emmy® and Peabody Award-winning series will remain in original episodes through 2016 and a milestone 20th season. Parker and Stone will continue to write, direct and edit every episode of "South Park," as they have since the premiere of the series in 1997.
"The collective genius of Matt and Trey knows no bounds," said Ganeless. "Week after week and season after season they continue to surprise and delight 'South Park' fans, and that includes all of us here at COMEDY CENTRAL. We're thrilled that the adventures of Stan, Kyle, Kenny and Cartman will continue through 2016."
"COMEDY CENTRAL has been our home for 15 years and we love working there," said Parker and Stone. "'South Park' is a blast and we can't wait to make more."
The announcement was made to coincide with the finale of the 15th season, which airs Wednesday at 10:00 pm EST.
The longevity of the show is a testament to the seeming indefatigable pace of its creators, Parker and Stone, as evidenced by the recent documentary about their creative process, "Six Days To Air."
But speculation on the future of "South Park" reached a fever pitch after its 14th season finale entitled, "You're Getting Old," wherein Stan turns 10-years-old and combats cynicism. Fearing that the genuinely tear-jerking episode was a comment on the ability of the series to carry on as it has, fans will most likely be delighted to learn that the characters they've come to know, love and occasionally fear over the last two decades will continue with more episodes.
Of course, any mention of future episodes of "South Park" brings to mind some of their greatest moments from the past. Certainly, the laser-guided satire of popular culture is one of the many things that have turned it into the long-running phenomenon it is. Below are some of our favorite movie parodies the show has churned out.
Tell us your favorite "South Park" moments in the comments, and while you're at it, let us know your predictions for the next few seasons.
