The premiere of South Park's 27th season was initially delayed amid contract disputes involving the show's creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, Paramount Global, and the incoming studio owner Skydance. The negotiations reportedly centered around a deal valued at approximately $3 billion. Despite earlier uncertainties, the season premiere eventually aired on Paramount+, coinciding with the announcement of a $1.5 billion deal between the creators and Paramount. The season opener, titled "Sermon on the Mount," featured a satirical portrayal of former President Donald Trump, combining traditional animation with AI-generated effects. This episode drew criticism from the White House, which dismissed the show as irrelevant and criticized its approach. In response, Parker and Stone issued a sarcastic apology for the episode. The premiere sparked renewed discussion about the show's approach to political satire, particularly regarding Trump, who has been a recurring subject on South Park. Paramount's co-CEOs George Cheeks, Chris McCarthy, and Brian Robbins acknowledged the transition period as Skydance prepares to take over the studio.