15 pieces of pop culture that may have been influenced by South Park

South Park debuted on Aug. 13, 1997. As we reach the 20th year and 21st season of the animated classic, here’s a look at 15 pieces of pop culture for which South Park paved the way.

After 20 years of cultural instigation and quick-witted satire, South Park has made an indelible mark on the popular culture.  To celebrate its 20th birthday and 21st season, we’ve gathered 15 pop culture items that were inspired by South Park, the Comedy Central staple. South Park began airing Aug.13, 1997 and was widely considered to have saved the network with its huge ratings and rabid fan base. Critics were mixed about the show in those early days, however.

Some loved it, and were impressed with its bold nature and willingness to take on controversy. Others were put off by its brash and bawdy humor, and couldn’t see past the surface of offensive language and images. Either way, it was a leading example of contemporary parody and continues to shape current comedy conventions.

Although some of the things on the list might not seem readily related to the animated classic, South Park‘s pervasive influence can be traced in every single one. South Park has influenced how these things present agendas, treat characters, or takes on controversial issues.

You can’t maintain a consistent presence in the collective cultural experience without inspiring other texts with what you are doing right, and in some cases, what you’re doing wrong. Although you might not be a fan of the show, there is no denying its impact on modern satire, nor can you discount its influence on shows with similar themes or concepts.