Isaac Hayes, known both for his legendary soul music and for voicing ‘Chef’ on South Park, left the show in 2006, but the real story behind his exit hasn’t been widely understood until now. Many fans recall the controversy: after South Park’s “Trapped in the Closet” episode mocked Scientology, Hayes’ religion at the time, a statement was released claiming he could no longer support the show because of its “intolerance and bigotry toward religious beliefs.” This puzzled viewers, since the show had always poked fun at all sorts of targets.
Recently, Isaac Hayes III, his son, cleared up what really happened. Posting on social media, he explained that his father didn’t actually quit on his own. After suffering a serious stroke, Isaac Hayes wasn’t in any condition to make such a big career decision or even speak for himself. According to Hayes III, it was people from his father’s Scientology circle—publicists and managers—who decided to pull him from the show and sent out that statement on his behalf.
Hayes III was blunt: “My dad did not quit South Park. Scientology did.” He said his father loved playing Chef and never complained about the jokes or being offended. In fact, Hayes missed voicing Chef and connecting with his fans.
https://twitchy.com/aaronwalker/2025/07/19/isaac-hayes-iii-tells-us-why-his-father-quit-south-park-n2415903

In a later interview, Hayes III added that after the stroke, the loss of his South Park paycheck forced his dad back on the road at a time when he wasn’t ready, which only made his health worse. He also believes Scientology’s stance against modern medicine hurt his dad’s chances of recovering.
As for Chef’s over-the-top farewell episode, Hayes III felt that the South Park creators were really sending a message to Scientology, not his dad. While he doesn’t want Chef brought back using artificial intelligence—calling it “creepy and gross”—he’d be open to voicing Chef’s son onscreen.
And for the record, Isaac Hayes’ favorite song from the show was “Chocolate Salty Balls,” which he performed live for years.
Bottom line: Isaac Hayes’ departure from South Park was about illness and outside influence, not about taking offense. His son hopes the truth sets the record straight.

>>212907973
>he’d be open to voicing Chef’s son onscreen.
HAHAHAHA

Is this the funk thread?

Y'all,son... cuz hip hop is officially ded & I want god damn jazz. Fuck you

Honestly, that'd kick ass if Chef somehow came back.