Leopold 'Butters' Stotch is a major character in the series. He is a fourth-grader in South Park Elementary. Butters' role gradually began to increase after he replaced Kenny during his temporary removal in Season Six. This allowed Butters to gain more screen time and further develop his character. He is the 'innocent child' in the group and Cartman's most exploited and possibly best 'friend'. Butters is loosely based on Eric Stough, an animation director/producer that works on the show. Butters has made appearances since 'Cartman Gets an Anal Probe', though initially as a background character. He gets his first speaking role in the Season Two episode, 'Clubhouses'. He later receives a speaking role in South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut. (Source: Fandom.com, CC BY-SA)