CHICAGO (thefutoncritic.com) -- Comedy Central has signed a two-year renewal of its franchise comedy "South Park" keeping the animated series (and its creators) on its schedule through the end of 2005.

In total the deal calls for co-creators and executive producers Trey Parker and Matt Stone to produce 141 episodes of the cartoon (the 100th episode of which airs April 9). Each of its 15-episode eighth and ninth seasons will be split across the spring and fall as has been the case for the series in recent years. Currently in its seventh season, the comedy airs Wednesdays at 10:00/9:00c.

The contract also includes an option for a 10th season, which if used would make the show the longest-running primetime comedy series in basic cable history. Fellow executive producer Anne Garefino has also extended her deal with the network and will remain on board along with her fellow producers.