South Park has never backed away from controversial issues and Wednesday’s season premiere wasn’t any different. The kids from Colorado took on Colin Kaepernick’s protest and showed how his message has been undercut by the media.

In the first clip, South Park takes the protest to South Park Elementary, where commentators wonder whether Nicole Daniels will sit or stand during the National Anthem. Creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker parody the media’s fascination with the action itself over the important message. In true South Park fashion, Randy Marsh is betting on the hot topic of what she’ll do in protest.

South Park later attempted to show how some try to change Kaepernick’s message, as a stadium announcer tells a football crowd that standing, kneeling, or sitting during the national anthem is an acceptable way to honor America – a plan devised by “wizard” J.J. Abrams. The announcement leaves Kaepernick struggling with how to position himself to protest.

Despite the popular animated series entering its 20th season, South Park has managed to stay relevant by tackling real-time issues. Its evolution from season one to now is fascinating, but unlike other longtime series’, such as The Simpsons, South Park’s pivot towards taking on big news stories days after they happen has kept it culturally  pertinent. The Kaepernick spoof is no different. Deep down, the silly show deconstructs a serious issue in order to present relevant topics in ridiculous, but worthy ways. It’s amazing.

[For The Win]

About Liam McGuire

Social +Staff writer for The Comeback & Awful Announcing. Liammcguirejournalism@gmail.com