No, Kenny McCormick does not have a definitive "last episode" in South Park. He is a foundational and recurring character in the series, who, despite frequently experiencing death, always returns in subsequent episodes.
Kenny's Recurring Role and Resurrections
While Kenny is famously known for dying in nearly every early episode of South Park, his appearances are not limited. His most notable 'permanent' departure occurred in Season 5, Episode 13, "Kenny Dies." In this episode, his death was depicted as a more serious and final event, with the intention for him not to return.
However, this permanence was short-lived. Kenny made his triumphant return in the Season 6 finale, "Red Sleigh Down," much to the surprise and delight of fans. Since then, while his deaths have become less frequent and more sporadic compared to the early seasons, Kenny continues to be a prominent character in South Park. He regularly appears alongside Stan, Kyle, and Cartman, participating in their various adventures and misadventures.
His continued presence means that there isn't a final episode where he permanently leaves the show. Instead, he remains an integral part of the South Park ensemble, embodying the show's dark humor and satirical nature through his unique role.
Key Episodes Highlighting Kenny's Narrative Arc
To understand Kenny's ongoing presence, it's helpful to look at the pivotal moments regarding his character's "deaths" and "returns":
| Season | Episode | Title | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 13 | "Kenny Dies" | Portrayed as Kenny's most significant and "permanent" death. |
| 6 | 17 | "Red Sleigh Down" | Marked Kenny's unexpected return to the series after his supposed permanent departure. |
| All | Various | Throughout Series | Kenny continues to appear, die, and be resurrected, remaining a core member of the main cast. |
In essence, Kenny McCormick's journey in South Park is characterized by his consistent presence despite his mortality, making the concept of a single "last episode" for him inapplicable.
