1999: Family Guy debuts (the first time)
The animated sitcom made its debut on Fox after Super Bowl XXXIII, marking the beginning of a unique journey that involved two cancellations before it established itself as one of the network’s comedy mainstays.
Initially, due to low ratings, the show faced cancellation at the end of its second season, but a last-minute change of heart spared it. However, in 2002, it was once again canceled after a shortened third season.
Nevertheless, Family Guy garnered a substantial following during its reruns on Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim block, ultimately prompting Fox to revive the show with new episodes in 2005.
Since then, it has become a cornerstone of Fox’s Sunday night lineup, alongside two other series created by and starring Seth MacFarlane: American Dad and the Family Guy spinoff, The Cleveland Show.
Today’s Birthdays:
- Jonathan Banks, known for his enforcer role, is celebrating his 66th birthday.
- Connie Booth, renowned for portraying a hotel worker, is turning 69.
- Portia de Rossi, famous for her role as a Bluth daughter, is celebrating her 40th birthday.
- Minnie Driver, known for her role as a con artist, is turning 43.
- John Franciscus, who played a teacher (deceased in 1991).
- Gary Moore is remembered as a game show host (deceased in 1993).
- Bobby Moynihan, a prominent SNL cast member, is now 36 years old.
- Suzanne Pleshette, who portrayed a therapist’s wife (deceased in 2008).
- Paul Scheer, a member of the League, is 37 today.
- Justin Timberlake, known for his unofficial role on SNL, is celebrating his 32nd birthday.
- Glynn Turman, famous for his portrayal as a mayor, is turning 67.
- Jessica Walter, the iconic Bluth matriarch, is 72 today.
- Kerry Washington, celebrated for her role as a crisis manager, is now 36.
Also Read: This was Television on January 25
