If you missed last week's episode, I think you missed a *very* funny episode. However, there's a stink going around about something they included. Something that I think showed respect, in a twisted "South Parkian" way.

First, it's getting to be Halloween. Satan wants to throw a party. The party is going to be like the parties on MTV's "My Super Sweet Sixteen".

Satan establishes a rule: No one gets into the party without a costume.

Previous rule established in other episodes: Only Mormons go to Heaven. Everyone else goes to Hell.

One side story is that the clergy (some of whom are depicted in a not so nice way that I'd even hesitate to describe on this forum) aren't happy that they aren't invited. If you wanted to be offended, how they depicted some of the priests would have given you plenty of material.

Anyway, midway through the party, one of Satan's minions comes up to him and says, "Satan, we have a problem. Some guy came dressed as Steve Irwin and some of the guests are unhappy and offended."

So Satan goes to deal with it. Now, mind you, this is South Park, so of course Steve is depicted with a stingray hanging out of his chest. I guess you could get a little offended by that if you really wanted to, but then, it's only a cartoon and how else would South Park have depicted him?

Satan says: "Dude, um, sorry, but your costume ... it's just too soon. You're making some of the guests uncomfortable. You're going to have to leave."

Personally, I find that a very respectful message for them to send: They won't make fun of Steve in any kind of disrespectful manner - it's too soon. But of course they still have to be funny, too, so the guy responds:

"But Satan, it's me. Steve Irwin."

After pausing a beat, Satan says, "Oh. Oh dude. I'm sorry, but no costume. You gotta leave."

I found it funny, but not funny at Steve's expense. Yet a lot of people are harping on it.

Did you see it? What did you think?