Isaac Hayes has parted ways with the Comedy Central series "South Park," citing the series' "inappropriate ridicule of religious communities" reports Reuters.

Hayes, who has voiced the character Chef since the series began in 1997, released a statement through his spokesman Monday requesting a release from his contract because he "is disappointed with what he perceives as a growing insensitivity toward personal spiritual beliefs."

"Park" co-creator Matt Stone issued a statement describing Hayes as a disgruntled Scientologist unhappy with a recent episode lampooning the organization's religious beliefs.