Love it or hate it, Family Guy has cemented its place as a cornerstone of adult animated sitcoms. Since its debut in 1999, Seth MacFarlane’s creation has delivered hundreds of episodes, each packed with its signature blend of raunchy humor, pop culture references, and satirical takes on society. The Griffin family, led by the well-meaning but dim-witted Peter, his intelligent wife Lois, their socially awkward children Meg and Chris, and the uniquely hilarious duo of Brian, the talking dog, and Stewie, the evil genius baby, have become household names for many.
With such a vast catalog, knowing where to start, or which episodes are truly the best, can be daunting. If you’re looking to dive into the best that Quahog has to offer, or simply want a curated list of top-tier episodes, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s our guide to some of the greatest Family Guy episodes, ranked for your viewing pleasure.
25. “McStroke” (Season 6, Episode 8)
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“McStroke” is a classic example of Family Guy‘s dual narrative structure, delivering laughs on two fronts. The main plot revolves around Peter Griffin suffering a stroke, hilariously induced by his excessive consumption of fast food burgers, and his subsequent lawsuit against the very fast food chain responsible. Peter’s absurd love for mustaches plays a key role in the stroke’s onset, adding another layer of bizarre humor to the storyline.
However, the episode truly shines with its B-plot, which sees Stewie embarking on a mission to prove to Brian that even a baby can achieve popularity in high school within a week. Stewie’s attempts to navigate the social dynamics of high school are both cynical and side-splittingly funny, showcasing his manipulative genius in a new environment. Despite being written during the 2007-2008 WGA strike, without Seth MacFarlane as a writer, “McStroke” stands out as one of the best episodes of Family Guy, proving the show’s comedic strength even under unusual circumstances.
24. “Stewie Loves Lois” (Season 5, Episode 1)
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Despite its misleading title, “Stewie Loves Lois” doesn’t solely focus on Stewie’s newfound affection for his mother. While Stewie’s storyline, where he suddenly becomes obsessively attached to Lois, is heartwarming and relatable for any parent experiencing a child’s clinginess, it shares the spotlight with another equally outrageous plot.
The episode’s primary narrative arc features Peter leading a town-wide revolt against a local doctor. Peter, in his typical over-the-top fashion, misinterprets a prostate exam as a sexual assault, sparking a hilarious and uncomfortable misunderstanding. The episode masterfully balances these two seemingly disparate storylines, creating a comedic synergy that enhances both. The relatable parental struggle of Lois dealing with Stewie’s sudden adoration and the cringe-worthy humor of Peter’s medical misadventure make “Stewie Loves Lois” a great Family Guy episode that delivers on multiple comedic levels.
23. “FOX-y Lady” (Season 7, Episode 10)
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“FOX-y Lady” directly confronts the often-discussed tension between Seth MacFarlane’s liberal viewpoints and the conservative leaning of the Fox network, the show’s broadcaster. This episode cleverly satirizes this dynamic when Lois gets a job as a reporter for Fox News. She quickly learns the network’s editorial constraints, discovering she’s forbidden from reporting anything that reflects negatively on prominent right-wing figures, like Rush Limbaugh.
The episode’s humor is amplified by its willingness to poke fun at itself and the network. “FOX-y Lady” benefits from guest appearances by Seth Rogen, Fred Savage, and even then-Fox executive Peter Chernin, all gamely participating in the self-deprecating humor. Adding to the comedic richness is a subplot featuring Peter’s persistent and hilariously terrible attempts to pitch a cartoon named Handi-Quacks. This combination of media satire and classic Family Guy absurdity makes “FOX-y Lady” a sharp and undeniably great episode.
22. “To Love and Die in Dixie” (Season 3, Episode 12)
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“To Love and Die in Dixie” is an episode that showcases Family Guy‘s ability to blend broad humor with pointed social commentary. The premise is set when Chris witnesses a crime, forcing the Griffin family into witness protection and relocating them to the Deep South. This relocation sets the stage for a barrage of jokes targeting Southern culture, from the Civil War to perceptions of same-sex relationships.
What elevates this episode beyond simple regional humor is its cleverness and willingness to push boundaries. It doesn’t just rely on stereotypical “redneck” jokes but delves into more nuanced observations about cultural differences and prejudices. Furthermore, “To Love and Die in Dixie” contributes to the overall character development and storytelling of Family Guy, making it not just funny but also a significant episode in the series’ progression. Its bold humor and cultural satire solidify its place as one of the Great Family Guy Episodes.
21. “Petarded” (Season 4, Episode 6)
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“Petarded” arrived during Family Guy‘s triumphant return after its initial cancellation, proving that the show hadn’t lost its edge. This episode boldly treads into controversial territory when Peter is mistakenly diagnosed as intellectually disabled after taking an IQ test. While the premise is undoubtedly sensitive, the episode’s humor largely avoids directly mocking individuals with developmental disabilities.
Instead, “Petarded” focuses its comedic lens on Peter himself. The humor derives from Peter’s characteristically absurd reaction to the diagnosis. He twists the situation to his advantage, using it as an excuse for his usual antics and even perceiving it as a form of superiority. This approach allows the episode to be provocative without being overtly offensive, targeting Peter’s ego and self-delusion rather than the struggles of those with intellectual disabilities. “Petarded” remains a memorable and somewhat daring, making it a noteworthy entry among great Family Guy episodes.
20. “Emmy-Winning Episode” (Season 16, Episode 1)
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“Emmy-Winning Episode” is a meta-commentary on the awards industry and Family Guy‘s own history with the Emmys. While the show has received numerous nominations and wins, particularly for voice acting and animation, the coveted Best Comedy Series Emmy has remained elusive. This episode serves as Seth MacFarlane’s humorous outlet for this frustration, channeled through Peter Griffin.
The entire episode is structured as a series of increasingly desperate attempts by Peter and the gang to create “Emmy bait.” They satirize the tropes and characteristics often associated with award-winning shows, from dramatic storylines to “very special” episodes. While seemingly born from MacFarlane’s personal grievances, the episode’s writing is consistently funny and thought-provoking. It playfully questions the very nature of comedic merit and what qualities are deemed “worthy” of prestigious awards, making “Emmy-Winning Episode” a clever and great Family Guy episode with a satirical bite.
19. “Leggo My Meg-O” (Season 10, Episode 20)
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“Leggo My Meg-O” is Family Guy‘s loving parody of the Taken film franchise. The episode sees Peter Griffin stepping into the Liam Neeson role when Meg is kidnapped while on a trip to Paris. Peter’s over-the-top transformation into an action hero, complete with a gravelly Liam Neeson impression, is a comedic highlight.
Beyond being a direct homage to Taken, “Leggo My Meg-O” also functions as a broader satire of the revenge genre. It playfully exaggerates the tropes of these films, from the highly skilled but unlikely hero to the predictable plot points. While the show often utilizes the running gag of “Meg is the worst,” this episode surprisingly places Meg at the center of the narrative. This shift allows Mila Kunis, the voice of Meg, to shine, even as the episode revels in its parody. “Leggo My Meg-O” is a fun, genre-savvy, and great Family Guy episode that delivers both laughs and clever film references.
18. “The Thin White Line” (Season 3, Episode 1)
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“The Thin White Line” is a standout episode, particularly notable for being superior to its two-part follow-up. The plot centers on Brian’s attempt to overcome his emotional malaise by volunteering as a drug-sniffing dog for the Quahog Police Department. However, his foray into public service takes a dark turn when Brian himself develops a drug addiction.
The episode effectively parodies classic police procedural dramas while exploring Brian’s character in depth. The humor is not just in the police movie send-ups, but also in the portrayal of Brian’s downward spiral and the irony of a drug-sniffing dog becoming an addict. Adding another layer of comedy is Peter’s subplot, where he tries to infiltrate a rehab facility, mistaking it for a luxurious cruise ship. This contrast between Brian’s serious struggle and Peter’s obliviousness makes “The Thin White Line” a sharply written and great Family Guy episode.
17. “The D in Apartment 23” (Season 16, Episode 6)
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“The D in Apartment 23” is a more recent episode that proves Family Guy‘s continued relevance and ability to tackle contemporary issues. The episode’s central conflict arises when Brian, in a misguided attempt to gain Twitter followers, posts a poorly judged, racially insensitive joke. Unsurprisingly, this leads to Brian being “canceled” by the internet.
The episode’s humor is sharply satirical, reflecting modern “cancel culture” and online outrage. Brian’s desperate attempts to defend himself and prove his progressive credentials to an angry mob are both hilarious and a commentary on the extremes of identity politics. The episode, while brief, effectively highlights the often-absurd nature of online shaming and the speed with which online reputations can be destroyed. “The D in Apartment 23” is a timely, relevant, and great Family Guy episode that resonates with the current social media landscape.
16. “Death Is a Bitch” (Season 2, Episode 6)
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“Death Is a Bitch” is a conceptually simple episode that is elevated by its exceptional execution. The story begins when Peter inadvertently causes the personification of Death to break his leg. As Death recovers at the Griffin household, Peter, in a moment of typical absurdity, decides to take over Death’s job of reaping souls.
While the writing is characteristically witty, the true highlight of this episode is the voice acting. The late, great Norm Macdonald voices Death, bringing his signature deadpan delivery and comedic timing to the role. Macdonald’s portrayal of Death is both lethargic and darkly humorous, perfectly complementing the episode’s premise. His voice work alone makes “Death Is a Bitch” a standout and great Family Guy episode, showcasing Macdonald’s unique comedic genius.
15. “Blue Harvest” (Season 6, Episode 1)
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“Blue Harvest” is Family Guy‘s ambitious and affectionate parody of Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. Seth MacFarlane, despite being a known Star Trek enthusiast, fully embraces the Star Wars universe in this episode, delivering a shot-for-shot comedic retelling of the iconic film. The Griffin family members are cast in the roles of Star Wars characters, with Peter as Han Solo, Lois as Princess Leia, Stewie as Darth Vader, Chris as Luke Skywalker, and Brian as Chewbacca, among others.
The episode is a loving tribute, filled with meticulous recreations of famous scenes and lines, all filtered through Family Guy‘s irreverent humor. “Blue Harvest” playfully explores how Peter Griffin, in particular, would handle the situations faced by Han Solo, leading to predictably chaotic and hilarious results. Whether you are a Family Guy fan, a Star Wars devotee, or both, “Blue Harvest” is a widely acclaimed and great Family Guy episode that offers something for everyone.
14. “Road to the North Pole” (Season 9, Episode 7)
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“Road to the North Pole” blends elements of previous Family Guy Christmas and “Road To” episodes, creating a unique holiday adventure for Brian and Stewie. This episode sees the duo embarking on a journey to the North Pole, initially with Stewie’s characteristic intention to kill Santa Claus.
The episode evolves into a surprisingly heartwarming story as Brian and Stewie witness both the joy of giving and the negative impacts of human greed during the Christmas season. Despite its potentially dark premise, “Road to the North Pole” manages to deliver an uplifting message of holiday cheer, Family Guy-style. It doesn’t sacrifice the show’s raunchy humor but integrates it into a narrative that ultimately promotes kindness and generosity. This unexpected blend of cynicism and sentimentality makes “Road to the North Pole” a distinctive and great Family Guy episode for the holiday season.
13. “Three Kings” (Season 7, Episode 15)
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“Three Kings” is a departure from the typical Family Guy format, showcasing the show’s versatility and willingness to experiment. With the blessing of horror master Stephen King, this episode presents three separate parodies of famous Stephen King adaptations: Stand by Me, Misery, and The Shawshank Redemption.
Each segment reimagines these iconic stories with Family Guy characters and humor. The parodies are not just simple spoofs but clever reinterpretations that maintain the spirit of the original works while injecting Family Guy‘s signature absurdity. Adding to the episode’s appeal are cameo appearances by Richard Dreyfuss and Roy Scheider, lending authenticity to the parodies. Reportedly, Stephen King himself praised the episode, a significant endorsement. “Three Kings” is a creatively ambitious and genuinely funny, making it a unique and great Family Guy episode.
12. “Road to Rhode Island” (Season 2, Episode 13)
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“Road to Rhode Island” holds a special place in Family Guy history as the first of the beloved “Road To” episodes featuring Brian and Stewie. This episode established the format for future adventures, sending the unlikely duo on a journey filled with misadventures and witty banter. In this inaugural “Road To” episode, Brian seeks to learn more about his origins by visiting the puppy mill where he was born, hoping to find closure about his past.
Despite the somewhat somber premise of Brian’s backstory, the episode is packed with classic Family Guy gags and humor. Notably, it features a memorable musical number that is both catchy and hilarious, becoming a fan favorite. Beyond its comedic merits, “Road to Rhode Island” is significant for establishing the recurring “Road To” format, a hallmark of Family Guy. Its historical importance and enduring humor solidify its status as a great Family Guy episode.
11. “Yug Ylimaf” (Season 11, Episode 4)
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“Yug Ylimaf,” an anagram for “Family Guy,” is another standout episode that pairs Brian and Stewie on an extraordinary adventure. The episode kicks off when Stewie discovers Brian has been misusing a time machine to impress women at bars for casual encounters. Brian’s irresponsible time-traveling escapades inadvertently threaten the fabric of spacetime, leading to a chaotic reversal of time.
As time runs backward, the episode unfolds in reverse chronological order, a clever narrative device that adds to the episode’s uniqueness. Brian and Stewie must team up to fix the timeline and restore normalcy. “Yug Ylimaf” is filled with references to past Family Guy episodes, rewarding long-time viewers. It also serves as another example of Seth MacFarlane’s affection for Star Trek-style sci-fi storytelling. Its inventive premise and execution make “Yug Ylimaf” a cleverly constructed and great Family Guy episode.
10. “Airport ’07” (Season 5, Episode 12)
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“Airport ’07” places Glenn Quagmire, usually known for his one-track mind, in an uncharacteristic career crisis. The episode begins with Peter inadvertently getting Quagmire fired from his job as an airline pilot. Feeling guilty, Peter attempts to help Quagmire find a new profession.
However, Peter’s well-intentioned but inept efforts set off a chain of events that escalate into a farcical and dangerous situation, putting numerous lives at risk. “Airport ’07” is classic Family Guy in its blend of absurdity and pop culture references. It features a memorable cameo from Playboy icon Hugh Hefner, along with the show’s signature cutaway gags and cultural allusions. The episode’s humor stems from the contrast between Quagmire’s professional life and Peter’s chaotic interference, making “Airport ’07” a consistently funny and great Family Guy episode.
9. “Meet the Quagmires” (Season 5, Episode 18)
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While “Back to the Pilot” is often cited as Family Guy‘s best Back to the Future parody, “Meet the Quagmires” is a strong contender for second place. In this episode, Peter reflects on his early marriage to Lois and wishes he had experienced more of single life. Through a time-travel mishap, Peter gets his wish and returns to his 18-year-old self.
However, Peter’s time-altering actions have unintended consequences. In the altered present, he discovers that Quagmire married Lois in his place. Peter must then find a way to restore the original timeline and reclaim his marriage. “Meet the Quagmires” delivers the show’s trademark lowbrow humor, but it also surprisingly explores Peter and Lois’s relationship with a touch of sentimentality. Peter’s realization of how much he values Lois adds an unexpected emotional depth to this otherwise zany and great Family Guy episode.
8. “Lois Kills Stewie” (Season 6, Episode 5)
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“Lois Kills Stewie” is the explosive conclusion to the storyline begun in “Stewie Kills Lois.” In this episode, Lois has already revealed Stewie’s attempted murder to the world. Stewie, now a fugitive, escalates his villainy, becoming a ruthless force determined to eliminate anyone who opposes him. His ambition culminates in a full-scale takeover of the United States.
The episode features cameos from American Dad characters, adding to the Seth MacFarlane animated universe crossover appeal. The interactions between Brian and Stewie, particularly their meta-discussion about audience expectations and fake-out endings, are a comedic highlight. “Lois Kills Stewie” revels in exploring the extent of Stewie’s evil genius, showcasing the chilling and absurd potential of his world-domination fantasies. This episode is a thrilling and darkly humorous, making it a great Family Guy episode for fans of Stewie’s villainous side.
7. “Stewie Kills Lois” (Season 6, Episode 4)
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“Stewie Kills Lois,” the first part of the two-part saga, is notorious for its provocative title and shocking premise. The episode starts with Stewie facing ridicule for his repeated threats against Lois, as he has never actually acted on them. Driven to prove himself, Stewie takes drastic action, shooting and seemingly killing Lois. This act sets off a chain of events that lead to Peter being suspected of Lois’s murder for insurance money.
“Stewie Kills Lois” is filled with compelling character moments, particularly for Stewie. It delves into the psychological implications of Stewie achieving his long-held ambition, exploring how it threatens his sense of self. The episode is suspenseful and darkly comedic, culminating in a twist ending that raises questions about reality within the Family Guy universe. Its boldness and character focus make “Stewie Kills Lois” a gripping and great Family Guy episode.
6. “The Simpsons Guy” (Season 13, Episode 1)
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“The Simpsons Guy” is the highly anticipated crossover episode between Family Guy and The Simpsons, two of Fox’s most iconic animated series. The episode begins with Peter creating an offensive comic strip that turns Quahog against him. Seeking refuge, the Griffins leave town and end up in Springfield after their car breaks down near the Simpsons’ hometown.
The crossover quickly brings the two families together, with humorous interactions between characters. Stewie and Bart bond over pranks, Lisa mentors Meg, and Peter and Homer inevitably clash, primarily over beer. The episode is packed with comedic moments and references to both shows. “The Simpsons Guy” is also notable for giving rise to the enduring Simpsons meme of Ralph Wiggum saying “I’m in danger.” This crossover event is a fan-pleasing and great Family Guy episode that celebrates two animation giants.
5. “And Then There Were Fewer” (Season 9, Episode 1)
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“And Then There Were Fewer,” the season 9 premiere, adopts a “go big or go home” approach with a murder mystery plot set at James Woods’ cliffside mansion, rather than the usual Quahog setting. The change of scenery sets the stage for a dramatic and comedic whodunit. The episode is distinguished by its ensemble cast of guest stars, including Drew Barrymore, Ashley Tisdale, Patrick Stewart, and James Woods himself, playing fictionalized versions of themselves.
The episode cleverly parodies classic murder mystery tropes while injecting Family Guy‘s signature humor. James Woods’ self-deprecating portrayal of his own public persona adds an extra layer of comedic synergy. “And Then There Were Fewer” is an hour-long special episode, allowing for a more developed storyline and character interactions. Its ambitious scope and star-studded cast make it a captivating and great Family Guy episode.
4. “Road to the Multiverse” (Season 8, Episode 1)
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“Road to the Multiverse” predates the current multiverse craze in popular culture, presenting a Family Guy-style exploration of alternate realities. Stewie and Brian embark on a journey through various universes using Stewie’s multiverse remote. Their travels take them to wildly different dimensions, including a Disney-esque world, a reality where everything is manga-style, and a dimension dominated by dogs.
The episode’s humor comes from the creative and often bizarre alternate universes and the characters’ reactions to them. The dog-dominated universe, in particular, is a highlight of comedic absurdity. “Road to the Multiverse” is a visually inventive and conceptually imaginative, providing a fun and mind-bending adventure for Brian and Stewie. Its originality and comedic exploration of alternate realities make it a truly great Family Guy episode.
3. “Da Boom” (Season 2, Episode 3)
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“Da Boom” is an early Family Guy episode that showcases the show’s willingness to embrace absurdity and topical satire. The episode is set against the backdrop of the Y2K panic. Peter, convinced of impending global catastrophe, forces his family into hazmat suits and bunkers them in their basement to survive Y2K.
In a departure from reality, Y2K actually does trigger a global apocalypse in the Family Guy universe, turning the world into a nuclear wasteland. The Griffins emerge to find a desolate landscape and establish “New Quahog.” Peter’s subsequent rise and fall as mayor of New Quahog is a comedic highlight. “Da Boom” is notable for introducing long-running gags, such as Peter’s nemesis, the chicken. It is also significant for being the first episode to feature Mila Kunis as the voice of Meg. Its blend of apocalyptic satire and early Family Guy humor makes “Da Boom” a memorable and great episode.
2. “PTV” (Season 4, Episode 14)
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“PTV” is an early example of Family Guy‘s effective use of meta-humor and social commentary. The episode is a direct response to increased FCC censorship mandates, inspired by the Janet Jackson “wardrobe malfunction” controversy. Peter reacts to these mandates by launching his own uncensored television network, PTV.
PTV becomes wildly popular due to its edgy and boundary-pushing content. However, Lois grows concerned about the impact of Peter’s programming, even as censorship becomes even stricter. “PTV” satirizes the FCC’s actions and the broader issue of censorship in entertainment. It’s a sharp and funny commentary on the delicate balance between creative freedom and regulation, delivered with Family Guy‘s characteristic irreverence. Its meta-humor and social satire make “PTV” a clever and great Family Guy episode.
1. “Back to the Pilot” (Season 10, Episode 5)
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“Back to the Pilot” is considered by many fans to be the quintessential Family Guy episode. It is a clever homage to Back to the Future, a nod to Star Trek, and a spiritual successor to “Road to the Multiverse.” As the title suggests, the episode’s plot involves Brian and Stewie traveling back in time to 1999, the year Family Guy premiered.
Brian, tempted to alter history, warns his past self about the 9/11 attacks. This well-intentioned but misguided action creates a ripple effect, drastically changing the present and turning the world into a dystopian wasteland. The episode is packed with Easter eggs and references for long-time Family Guy viewers, rewarding their loyalty. “Back to the Pilot” is a meta, time-traveling, reference-rich, and hilarious episode that embodies everything that makes Family Guy great, earning its place as the top pick among great Family Guy episodes.
Related content: Family Guy official website
