‘Family Guy‘ has always kept viewers on their toes, as the Fox sitcom has taught them to expect anything from the show. We have watched the Griffin family go through hilariously ridiculous plots. The Griffins saw Peter go from job to job in the toy factory, as a fisherman and a clerk in the Pawtucket factory. They have survived a post-apocalyptic world. But they had done it together.
In 2013, the Fox series took the fandom by surprise as Brian Griffin, the pet dog in Family Guy was killed off in the show. Brian is an anthropomorphic dog who ostentatiously pretends to be philosophical and insightful but entertains viewers with his hypocrisy. Although Brian’s character was restored in the same season, viewers were unhinged when the beloved character was erased from the show.
Why Was Brian Pulled From The Show?
In season 12, the episode titled ‘Life of Brian’, Brian and Stewie Griffin, the family’s youngest child, went to the street to play hockey. Brian was hit by a speeding car while Stewie went into the house. When the family comes out, Brian is gravely injured. They take him to the hospital where he succumbs to his injuries. Viewers were puzzled over the radical demise of the character.
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In a panel interview, program creator, Seth McFarlane answered, “It reminded people this is still a show where anything can happen despite the fact it’s been on for a while.” The Orville actor confirmed that he expected a stir to be created but could not foresee the outrage. Rolling Stones reports, “We thought it would create a little bit of a stir, but the rage wasn’t something we counted on.”
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Who Replaces Brian Griffin On ‘Family Guy’?
After mourning Brian’s death, the Griffins decide that they need to purchase a new pet to cope with Brian’s memory. In the pet store, Peter meets a dog named Vinny. Peter decides to bring Vinny home but Stewie refuses to accept him. Later, Vinny tells Stewie that he recently lost his owner too. Stewie embraces Vinny as he realizes that they both need each other. In the next episode, Vinny replaces Brian in the theme song of the show. Here viewers feel the permanence of the change.
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However, in the episode The Christmas Guy, Brian is brought back to life. Stewie steals the return pad from his past self to go back in time. He saves Brian from the crash and the entire timeline till the eighth episode is erased. It means the Griffin family never meets Vinny and forgets about him.
