Family Guy, known for its irreverent humor and pop culture references, has a long-standing, amusing fascination with the iconic singer and actress, Cher. In a recent Christmas episode titled “Jesus, Mary and Joseph,” the show’s writers wove in several jokes highlighting Cher’s enduring career and legendary status. This isn’t the first time Family Guy has poked fun at Cher, and it certainly won’t be the last.
Family Guy Christmas Episode featuring Cher Jokes
The Christmas episode presented a series of Cher-themed gags. When Peter Griffin, playing Joseph, invites Lois Griffin, as Mary, on a date, his suggestion is far from traditional: “Hey listen I just got tickets to see Cher in Bethlehem. Wanna go?” The humor continues when Joseph boasts about the concert tickets, “Row LXVI,” highlighting the perceived distance, a playful jab at concert ticket pricing and venue size.
Later, as Mary and Joseph seek shelter, Mort Goldman, in the role of the innkeeper, turns them away, citing a major event in Bethlehem: “Sorry. We’re all booked up. Cher is in town. You won’t find a room in the city.” This joke plays on Cher’s massive fame and the chaos a celebrity appearance can cause.
The episode culminates in a humorous concert scene. As Cher performs in Bethlehem, Joseph confidently predicts her opening song: “Jah! See? I told you she’d open with that,” as Cher’s unmistakable voice belts out, “Do you believe in life after love?” This punchline humorously exaggerates the iconic status of “Believe” as Cher’s definitive opening number, even though, as Cher scholars know, this isn’t actually her typical concert opener.
But the Family Guy Cher references extend beyond just this Christmas special. The show has a history of incorporating Cher into its comedic fabric.
Family Guy Cher Impersonator in Wheelchair Joke
One memorable gag features a Cher impersonator, adding another layer to their playful ribbing. Another classic Family Guy Cher moment involves Meg Griffin attempting a disastrous Cher impersonation for troops, showcasing the show’s willingness to use Cher’s image for comedic effect in various scenarios.
In yet another instance, Peter Griffin takes to the skies, not to spread holiday cheer, but to write “Retire Cher” with an airplane, a clear parody of the famous “Surrender Dorothy” message from The Wizard of Oz.
Family Guy Peter Griffin 'Retire Cher' Airplane Banner Joke
Family Guy‘s ongoing Cher jokes are a testament to Cher’s enduring presence in pop culture. The show cleverly uses her iconic status, songs, and public persona to create humorous moments, proving that even decades into her career, Cher remains a vibrant and recognizable figure ripe for comedic exploration. Whether it’s Christmas specials or random cutaways, Family Guy and Cher make for an unlikely but consistently funny pairing.
