Trapped In The Closet By South Park: An Analysis

It is often assumed that most people are not sensitive to any religion other than their own. It is quite easy to form an opinion on a topic you disagree with, or have little understanding of. Religion is one of those controversial topics where we take extra care to not offend anyone because of opposing beliefs. Religion is also rarely defined because everyone experiences it differently. South Park take a different approach. Making light of all things, religion included. “Trapped in the Closet,” is an episode by South Park where religious sensitivity was analyzed. In this episode, a depressed Stan becomes a perfect candidate for Scientology after completing an online questionnaire. The President of Scientology decides that because Stan had such a high reading on his questionnaire that he was undoubtedly the reincarnation of Ron Hubbard, the founder and prophet for the Scientology religion. Stan is asked by the scientologists to lead their religious group.

Criticizing the show for being offensive would be like accusing Oprah for being generous. Duh! I was shocked when Issac Hayes, aka Chef announced that he was quitting the show in outrage of its treatment of Scientology. Montgomery, J reports in article “Isaac Hayes Wants Out Of ‘South Park’ Due To Religious Jokes.” MTV: (2006, March 13) that Issac released the following statement "Religious beliefs are sacred to people, and at all times should be respected and honored," he continued. "As a civil rights activist of the past 40 years, I cannot support a show that disrespects those beliefs and practices." In response to his accusations, "South Park" co-creator Matt Stone responded sharply in an interview with The Associated Press Monday, saying, "This is 100 percent having to do with his faith of Scientology... He has no problem — and he's cashed plenty of checks — with our show making fun of