South Park, the irreverent and long-running satirical animated series created by Trey Parker and Matt Stone, is back in the spotlight—not just for its edgy humor but for a landmark streaming deal that is reshaping the show’s future and the streaming wars landscape.
The highly anticipated Season 27 premiere, originally slated for July 9, 2025, has been postponed to July 23, 2025. This delay stems from intense behind-the-scenes negotiations surrounding the show’s streaming rights, underscoring the high stakes involved in today’s competitive digital entertainment market.
A Historic Streaming Agreement
After months of complex talks, Parker and Stone’s production company, Park County, struck a groundbreaking five-year deal with Paramount+ to bring South Park exclusively to the platform in the U.S. for the first time. Valued at approximately $300 million annually, this agreement totals $1.5 billion for streaming rights alone, highlighting South Park’s enduring value as one of television’s most lucrative franchises.
This deal marks a significant shift. Previously, South Park’s streaming rights were licensed to HBO Max, but that arrangement expired in late June 2025. Paramount’s acquisition reunites the show with its original home network, Comedy Central, and consolidates its streaming presence under the Paramount+ umbrella—an important strategic move as streaming platforms vie for exclusive, must-watch content to attract and retain subscribers.
The Negotiation Drama Behind the Scenes
The negotiations were far from smooth. Paramount initially proposed a co-licensing deal with HBO Max to maintain dual streaming availability, but talks collapsed, pushing Paramount to secure exclusive rights. Complicating matters further was Paramount’s pending sale to Skydance Media, whose leadership had to approve the deal amid concerns about the evolving TV landscape. Park County initially sought a 10-year term, but a compromise on a five-year contract was reached.
Tensions escalated to the point where Parker and Stone’s team prepared legal action against Paramount and Skydance, illustrating the high stakes involved. Ultimately, the parties resolved their differences, enabling the deal to proceed just in time for the new season launch.
What This Means for Fans and the Industry
For fans, the new season promises the trademark sharp satire and cultural commentary South Park is known for, with 10 fresh episodes airing weekly on Comedy Central every Wednesday at 10:00 pm ET/PT. The show’s return is eagerly awaited, especially given its ability to tackle current events with fearless humor.
From an industry perspective, the $1.5 billion streaming deal underscores the growing importance of legacy content in the streaming wars. As platforms invest billions to secure exclusive rights to established franchises, South Park exemplifies how a show with a devoted fanbase and consistent cultural relevance can command premium value. This deal also reflects a broader trend where content creators are leveraging their intellectual property to negotiate lucrative, multi-platform agreements that extend beyond traditional TV.
Moreover, the deal’s timing is notable. With Paramount preparing for a major corporate transition and the streaming market becoming increasingly saturated, securing South Park exclusively bolsters Paramount+’s content library and competitive positioning.
The Creators’ Enduring Influence
Trey Parker and Matt Stone have long been pioneers in blending satire with social commentary, and their savvy business maneuvers mirror their creative boldness. Their ability to secure such a lucrative streaming deal while continuing to produce new episodes speaks to their deep understanding of both entertainment and media economics.
As South Park enters its 27th season, it remains a cultural touchstone that not only entertains but also provokes thought and debate—qualities that have kept it relevant for over two decades.
Where to Watch ‘This Is Going to Hurt’
Looking for where to stream “This Is Going to Hurt”? This medical comedy-drama based on Adam Kay’s memoir has gained popularity for its honest portrayal of life in a hospital maternity ward. The series stars Ben Whishaw and shows both the funny and difficult moments of being a doctor.
You can currently watch “This Is Going to Hurt” on several streaming platforms including AMC+, Prime Video, Sundance Now, Hoopla Digital, DIRECTV, and The Roku Channel. The show originally aired on BBC One in the UK but has since become available on multiple services to reach international audiences.
The series offers a no-holds-barred look at the healthcare system through the eyes of a junior doctor. Its raw storytelling and authentic approach to medical drama have made it a must-watch for fans of both comedy and drama who appreciate shows that don’t shy away from difficult realities.
Key Takeaways
- “This Is Going to Hurt” is currently available on multiple platforms including AMC+, Prime Video, and Hoopla Digital.
- The series stars Ben Whishaw and is based on Adam Kay’s memoir about his experiences as a junior doctor.
- The show blends comedy and drama while providing an unflinching look at the challenges within the healthcare system.
Broadcasting and Streaming Platforms
“This Is Going to Hurt” starring Ben Whishaw has become available across multiple streaming platforms since its initial release. The medical comedy-drama based on Adam Kay’s memoir offers viewers several options to watch the show depending on their location and subscription preferences.
Availability on BBC Platforms
“This Is Going to Hurt” first premiered on BBC One in February 2022, giving UK viewers their first look at Ben Whishaw’s portrayal of junior doctor Adam Kay. The seven-episode series quickly gained popularity for its honest depiction of life in the National Health Service.
The complete series remains available on BBC iPlayer for viewers in the United Kingdom. BBC iPlayer offers the show free of charge with a valid TV license, making it the most accessible option for UK residents. The platform allows viewers to stream all episodes on demand, with no subscription fees beyond the standard TV license.
The BBC has maintained exclusive broadcasting rights in the UK, with no plans to move the series to other UK-based platforms in the near future.
Coverage by AMC Networks
In the United States, AMC Networks secured the rights to broadcast “This Is Going to Hurt.” The show is currently available through several AMC-related channels and services.
Viewers can stream the series through AMC+, AMC’s premium streaming bundle. This service offers the complete first season of the medical comedy-drama. Additionally, the show is available through the AMC+ channel on Amazon Prime Video and through AMC+ Apple TV Channel.
DIRECTV subscribers can also access the series through their existing service. The Roku Channel has recently added the show to its lineup, expanding accessibility for viewers who use Roku devices.
International Access Through Streaming Services
Beyond the UK and US markets, “This Is Going to Hurt” has reached international audiences through various streaming platforms. Acorn TV and Sundance Now both carry the series in their catalogs.
For budget-conscious viewers, Hoopla Digital offers the show free of charge through participating public libraries. This service allows users to stream content with a valid library card from a participating institution.
In Australia, the series aired on ABC, introducing Ben Whishaw’s performance to Australian audiences. The show’s international distribution reflects its global appeal and critical acclaim.
Various subscription options exist across these platforms, with most offering monthly payment plans or free trials for new users interested in watching the award-winning UK comedy.
Production Insights and Background
“This Is Going to Hurt” brings viewers behind the scenes of Britain’s healthcare system through one doctor’s raw experiences. The show’s authentic portrayal of hospital life comes from its unique origins and dedicated production team.
Adaptation from Adam Kay’s Memoir
The series is based on Adam Kay’s bestselling 2017 memoir that documented his years working as a junior doctor in the NHS. Kay himself adapted his book for television, ensuring the show maintained the same unflinching honesty and dark humor that made the original text so impactful.
The adaptation process took several years, with filming finally taking place in 2021. Kay served as creator, writer, and executive producer, giving him significant control over how his experiences in obstetrics and gynecology were portrayed on screen.
BBC and AMC collaborated on the production, bringing Kay’s vision to life with careful attention to medical accuracy. The production team consulted with healthcare professionals throughout filming to ensure authentic representation of procedures and hospital environments.
The Role of the NHS in The Narrative
The National Health Service (NHS) stands as a central character in the series. The show doesn’t shy away from depicting the challenges facing Britain’s healthcare system, including budget cuts, staff shortages, and overwhelming patient loads.
The narrative highlights how these systemic pressures affect both patients and medical professionals. Junior doctors like Kay’s character work grueling hours in high-stress environments while trying to provide quality care.
Set primarily in a London hospital’s labor ward, the series shows the contrast between the life-affirming moments of childbirth and the harsh realities of an underfunded system. This portrayal sparked discussions about healthcare funding and doctor welfare when the show aired in 2022.
A Glance at the Ensemble Cast
Ben Whishaw leads the cast as Adam, bringing vulnerability and dark humor to the role of the overworked junior doctor. His performance earned significant acclaim for capturing the exhaustion and ethical dilemmas faced by medical professionals.
Ambika Mod delivers a standout performance as Shruti, another junior doctor navigating the challenges of the obstetrics department. The supporting cast includes talented actors like Alex Jennings, Harriet Walter, and Michele Austin, who portray senior doctors and medical staff.
Kadiff Kirwan and Ashley McGuire round out the ensemble, while Rory Fleck Byrne plays Adam’s partner. The chemistry between cast members effectively conveys the camaraderie that develops among healthcare workers facing difficult situations together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many viewers have questions about accessing “This is Going to Hurt,” the critically acclaimed 2022 medical drama starring Ben Whishaw. The show is available through several streaming options depending on your location and subscription preferences.
What streaming services offer ‘This is Going to Hurt’ for viewing?
“This is Going to Hurt” is available on multiple streaming platforms. According to recent information, viewers can watch it on AMC+, Prime Video, DIRECTV, Sundance Now, hoopla Digital, and The Roku Channel.
BBC iPlayer also offers the series for UK viewers. The show consists of 7 episodes that were first broadcast in February 2022.
Is ‘This is Going to Hurt’ available on Netflix?
Currently, “This is Going to Hurt” is not available on Netflix. The medical drama has distribution agreements with other streaming services instead.
Viewers should check Netflix periodically as streaming rights can change over time. For now, fans will need to use one of the other available platforms to watch the series.
Can I watch ‘This is Going to Hurt’ on Amazon Prime Video?
Yes, “This is Going to Hurt” is available on Amazon Prime Video. Subscribers can access the show through their regular Prime subscription or potentially through add-on channels.
The series features Ben Whishaw’s critically acclaimed performance as an exhausted doctor navigating the healthcare system. Prime Video makes all 7 episodes available for streaming.
How can I watch ‘This is Going to Hurt’ for free online?
Limited free viewing options exist for “This is Going to Hurt.” Some viewers may access it through free trials of services like AMC+ or Sundance Now.
The Roku Channel might offer the series with ads at no cost. Libraries that subscribe to hoopla Digital may provide free access to patrons with a library card.
When will ‘This is Going to Hurt’ season 2 be released?
There are currently no announcements regarding a second season of “This is Going to Hurt.” The show was created as a limited series based on Adam Kay’s memoir of the same name.
The story was told completely within the 7-episode run that premiered in 2022. The nature of the source material makes additional seasons unlikely.
Which platforms will have ‘This is Going to Hurt’ available in the USA?
USA viewers can watch “This is Going to Hurt” on several platforms. These include AMC+, Prime Video, DIRECTV, Sundance Now, hoopla Digital, and The Roku Channel.
For those seeking BBC iPlayer access, a VPN service like PureVPN can connect to UK servers. This allows American viewers to access the BBC’s streaming platform where the show is also available.
