The latest “South Park” special is out and once again, the show does not disappoint in its mocking of the diversity fever that has taken over Hollywood. The trailer starts off with Cartman having a nightmare about Disney executives who replace all the beloved characters with “diverse women who complain about the patriarchy”. This satirical take on the diversity and inclusion trend in the entertainment industry highlights the absurdity of these casting decisions.
Cartman’s fear of Disney executives hiding under his bed, particularly Kathleen Kennedy, the president of Lucasfilm, is a not-so-subtle jab at the push for diversity in the industry. This fear is not unfounded as major studios and production agencies have been actively trying to appeal to diverse audiences by incorporating “diversity and inclusion” into their projects.
This, however, has just become a form of performative activism, as seen in Disney’s attempts to overcome fatphobia and the surge of LGBTQ representation in films and shows.
“South Park” also brings attention to the recent Disney protests that emerged after the company’s response to Florida’s Parental Rights in Education bill. As Hollywood becomes more woke and attempts to push their agendas, the voices of those who do not align with these ideologies are silenced. This type of forced diversity and inclusion is not genuine and only serves as a publicity stunt for studios to appear progressive and socially aware.
The show also addresses the growing use of artificial intelligence in the entertainment industry as part of its “Joining the Panderverse” series. This further highlights the dangerous path Hollywood is on, where AI is being used to create characters and storylines based on data rather than creativity and talent. This only perpetuates the idea that diversity and inclusivity are more important than capabilities and talent.
The new “South Park” special, “Joining the Panderverse”, is a stark reminder of the growing issue of diversity casting in Hollywood and the dangerous path the industry is taking in its embrace of performative activism and AI. As audiences become more aware of these tactics, it is important to question the hiring process in the industry.
Just because someone belongs to a certain group, it does not automatically make them the best fit for a role. As Cartman’s mom reminds him in the trailer, “there’s no such thing as Disney executives who replace everyone you love with diverse women who complain about the patriarchy”. Talent and capabilities should always be the top priority, not just ticking off boxes for diversity.
