The Family Guy Theme Tune Lyrics are instantly recognizable to millions of fans worldwide. This catchy and satirical opening song sets the tone for the irreverent humor and pop culture references that define the animated sitcom, Family Guy. Let’s delve into the lyrics to understand why this theme tune has become such an iconic part of television history.
The song begins with Lois and Peter Griffin, the central couple of the show, lamenting the state of modern entertainment and values.
[Lois] It seems today that all you see
Is violence in movies and sex on TV
[Peter] But where are those good ‘ol fashioned values
On which we used to rely?
This opening immediately establishes the show’s satirical edge. It’s a commentary on societal changes, framed through the somewhat clueless perspective of Peter and Lois. They yearn for “good ‘ol fashioned values,” a sentiment that is immediately undercut by the show’s own brand of boundary-pushing humor.
Brian and Stewie, the family’s sophisticated dog and diabolical baby, chime in next, focusing on the decline of celebrity and cultural standards.
[Brian] It used to be a big time star
Was elegant as Garbo, or Hedy Lamarr
[Stewie] But now we get whores like Jenny Lopez
You want to curl up and die
Here, the satire becomes more pointed. Brian’s reference to classic Hollywood glamour contrasts sharply with Stewie’s crass and exaggerated reaction to contemporary pop culture figures like Jennifer Lopez. The line is intentionally provocative and humorous, reflecting Stewie’s often over-the-top persona. The use of the word “whores” is deliberately shocking and exemplifies the show’s willingness to tackle controversial subjects with dark humor.
The chorus then bursts in, introducing the central figure of the show and the reason for the family’s “luck.”
Lucky there’s a Family Guy
Lucky there’s a man who positively can do
All the things that make us
[Stewie] Laugh and cry
He’s our Family Guy
This is the core message of the theme. “Family Guy” is presented as a chaotic, unpredictable, yet ultimately lovable figure. The line “all the things that make us laugh and cry” hints at the emotional rollercoaster of the show, blending outrageous comedy with moments of unexpected sentimentality. Stewie’s interjection adds a layer of cynical humor, even within the seemingly positive chorus.
The second verse continues the theme of contrasting the past with the present, this time focusing on music and film.
[Louis] When I was young, the songs were fair
With Mister Johnny Mathis, and Sonny and Cher
[Peter] But now we get Justin Timber-homo
[Louis] A heartache all gone awry!
[Brian] The classic films were works of art
The images were graceful, the stories were smart
[Stewie] But now we get Matrix Revolution, I’m sorry I know this doesn’t rhyme
But what the hell were you Wachowski Brothers thinking?!
The generational gap is further emphasized. Lois’s nostalgic references to Johnny Mathis and Sonny and Cher are juxtaposed with Peter’s offensive and nonsensical take on Justin Timberlake. Brian’s appreciation for classic films is humorously undermined by Stewie’s outburst about The Matrix Revolutions, a film often criticized for being convoluted and disappointing. Stewie breaking the rhyme scheme adds to the comedic effect, highlighting the absurdity of his rant.
The chorus repeats, reinforcing the central theme of the “Family Guy” figure.
Lucky there’s a family guy
Lucky there’s a fella, sweeter than vanilla
Wholesome as a piece of
[Stewie] Apple pie
He’s a family guy
This time, the lyrics exaggerate Peter’s positive attributes to an almost comical degree. “Sweeter than vanilla” and “wholesome as a piece of apple pie” are ironic descriptions given Peter’s often selfish and immature behavior throughout the show. Stewie’s deadpan “apple pie” interjection further underscores the satire.
The bridge section provides a rapid-fire series of character-specific one-liners, showcasing the family’s dynamic and individual quirks.
[Lois] His smile’s a simple delight
[Chris] He lets me see the boobies on the internet sites
[Lois] Peter!
[Meg] He bought me my cute little hat
[Brian] Yeah, we should have a talk about that
About that! And his hat!
This section is a whirlwind of typical Family Guy humor. Chris’s naive and inappropriate internet habits, Meg’s desperate attempts for attention, and Brian’s voice of reason are all encapsulated in these short lines. The abrupt cut-off and Brian’s repeated line about “that! And his hat!” add to the comedic timing.
The song continues with more exaggerated and absurd descriptions of Peter.
[Brian] He’s mastered the comedy arts
[Stewie] He says, Look out, Hiroshima! Then casually farts
[Lois] He’s loaded with sexy appeal
[Peter] And best of all my titties are real, Have a feel!
[Brian] No thank you
[Stewie] I gave it the office
These lines push the boundaries of good taste, typical of Family Guy‘s humor. Stewie’s dark joke about Hiroshima followed by a fart is deliberately offensive and absurd. Peter’s crude and self-obsessed comment about his “titties” is another example of the show’s willingness to embrace vulgarity for comedic effect. Brian and Stewie’s reactions (“No thank you,” “I gave it the office”) provide further comedic commentary.
The final verse references classic sitcoms, drawing a comparison between Family Guy and more traditional family shows.
[Lois] The Brady Bunch has got their Mike
And pretty Laura Petrie has Dicky Van Dyke
But who around here could fill those loafers?
But here’s a happy reply
Lucky there’s a family guy
Lucky there’s a man who positively can do all the thing that
Make us
[Stewie] Laugh and cry!
He’s a Family Guy!
He’s a Family Guy!
The references to The Brady Bunch and The Dick Van Dyke Show highlight the contrast between idealized sitcom families and the Griffins’ dysfunctional reality. Lois’s question, “Who around here could fill those loafers?” is answered by the repeated chorus, ultimately embracing Peter, flaws and all, as the central “Family Guy.”
In conclusion, the Family Guy theme tune lyrics are a microcosm of the show itself. They are satirical, irreverent, and packed with pop culture references and dark humor. The song effectively introduces the main characters, establishes the show’s comedic tone, and celebrates the chaotic yet entertaining nature of the “Family Guy.” It’s no wonder these lyrics have become so deeply ingrained in popular culture, instantly signaling the start of another episode of Seth MacFarlane’s animated comedy.
