When Fox unveiled its schedule for the 2024-25 television season, fans of Family Guy noticed a significant absence. The long-standing animated sitcom, gearing up for its 23rd season, was not included in Fox’s fall Sunday animation block. This news might have sparked concern among viewers wondering about the fate of the show: Is Family Guy still running?
The answer is yes. Family Guy is indeed still running and will be back for Season 23. While it won’t be part of the initial fall lineup on Sundays, this isn’t a cancellation or sign of the show ending. Instead, Fox is strategically shifting its schedule. To make room for new animated series like Universal Basic Guys and the second-season of Krapopolis in the coveted Sunday slots, Family Guy is slated for a midseason return.
According to Fox network president Michael Thorn, this scheduling change is a strategic move, not a reflection of the show’s popularity. He emphasized that Family Guy remains a “crucial part of our schedule.” The decision to hold it for midseason is aimed at giving new shows a strong start during the NFL season, which traditionally draws large audiences to Sunday primetime television. Thorn reassured fans that Family Guy will receive a “great relaunch” upon its return to Sundays and is expected to continue resonating with audiences, just as it always has.
Moreover, Fox acknowledges the evolving viewing habits of Family Guy fans. A significant portion of the audience now catches up on episodes via Hulu or on demand platforms after the initial broadcast. Launching a full season of new episodes in midseason is expected to bolster the show’s performance on these off-air platforms as well.
It’s also worth noting that Family Guy isn’t the only established Fox animated show being held for midseason. The Great North and Grimsburg are also scheduled for later premieres. This strategic reshuffling indicates Fox’s continued investment in animation and its desire to strategically launch and support different shows throughout the year.
Fox Entertainment CEO Rob Wade echoed this sentiment, highlighting the network’s strong relationship with Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane and Disney’s 20th Television Animation, the production company behind Family Guy, The Simpsons, and Bob’s Burgers. While Family Guy is also producing exclusive holiday specials for Hulu, its streaming home, Wade affirmed the importance of a broadcast window on Fox for these long-running animated staples. He believes these shows “really benefit from being on Fox,” a view reportedly shared by Disney.
In conclusion, for those wondering “is Family Guy still running?”, the answer is a definitive yes. Season 23 is on its way, albeit in a midseason slot. This schedule change is a strategic maneuver by Fox to optimize its animation lineup and launch new shows effectively, not an indication of Family Guy‘s end. Fans can look forward to the Griffin family’s return with a full season of episodes, continuing their reign in animated comedy.
