South Park Season 9

Right now you can watch South Park Season 9 on and — and it is funnier than its reputation suggests. The 1-season run is exactly the right length for what it is doing. An 8/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Watch it for Trey Parker — stay for everyone else around them. Start it whenever you need something guaranteed to land.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, South Park Season 9 is worth clearing space for. The jokes in South Park Season 9 land because the characters underneath them are worth caring about. Join Stan, Kyle, Cartman and Kenny as they deal with the perceived dangers of global warming, a certain actor's sexuality is questioned, and the Pope arrives to witness a religious miracle. For them, it’s all part of growing up in South Park! Trey Parker and Matt Stone lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was aired in 2005. The timing in South Park Season 9 is precise enough that even the throwaway lines land on a second watch. The hit rate here is high enough that skipping ahead never feels like an option.

If you need a comedy that actually makes you laugh, South Park Season 9 is a strong candidate. It does not lean on comparisons to make its case. Best experienced as a single, sustained watch if your schedule allows. Trey Parker sets the tone, but the supporting cast is where a lot of the best moments come from. A reliable pick for any night you want quality comedy without the homework.