Emmy Awards speech mentions South Park leaving fans stunned at unexpected recognition
The Primetime Emmy Awards took place on Sunday, September 14, and during the ceremony, South Park received a surprised mention that left viewers at home a bit confused
The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards have sparked quite a buzz among viewers after South Park received recognition for "seizing the power of television."
On Sunday, Sept. 14, Hollywood celebrities including Sydney Sweeney and Jenna Ortega assembled at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles to honor exceptional performances, innovative storytelling and technical excellence in American prime time television. While no musical acts were slated for the evening's lineup, attendees discovered ample entertainment during Cris Abrego's address, when the Television Academy Chairman referenced South Park on the legendary stage.
He began, "In a time when division dominates the headlines, storytelling still has the power to unite us. Television and the artists who make it do more to reflect society," he went on, according to the Irish Star.
"They shape our culture and in times of culture regression, they remind us of what's at stake and what can still be achieved," he continued. He proceeded to highlight several pioneering shows, including MASH, Roots, Will and Grace, and, perhaps the most surprising reference, South Park.
"For generations, artists have seized the power of television to broaden horizons, challenge the status quo, and bend the art of history towards justice," Cris added.
"In moments like this, neutrality is not enough," he continued. "We must be voices for connection, inclusion, empathy because we know that culture doesn't come from the top down. It rises from the bottom up."
"Culture belongs to the people so if our industry is to thrive, we need to make room for more voices, not fewer," he concluded.
As he wrapped up his remarks, fans rushed to X in shock at his reference to the popular animated series, with one writing, "Hard to imagine in 1997 that South Park would get a shout out at the Emmys in the same breath as the corporation for public broadcasting."
Another posted, "They just mentioned south park on the emmys and i started tweaking out oh my god i got issues." A third commented, "The words South Park being said on the Emmy's stage. woah now."
The animated show's acknowledgment at the Emmy Awards arrives during its 27th season, which has focused on mocking President Donald Trump's administration, particularly spotlighting key figures within it like Karoline Leavitt and Vice President JD Vance.
This year's Primetime Emmy Awards were presented by Nate Bargatze, representing his first time hosting a major awards ceremony. Topping the evening in nominations was Apple TV+'s thriller Severance with 27 mentions, followed by HBO Max's The Penguin with 24.
Streaming services controlled the nominations completely, with notable series like The White Lotus, Only Murders in the Building, and The Studio also receiving acclaim.