When it comes to long-running television, few programs have managed to reach the heights that were created by Fox’s animated sitcom line-up. From The Simpsons’ record-breaking run to Family Guy, the network’s Animation Domination continues to be a cornerstone of pop culture and comedy, and this year, a fan favorite is finally coming home. American Dad! may not always receive the same amount of love that the aforementioned series have, but, after moving from Fox to TBS more than a decade ago, it has formed a loyal fanbase and has enjoyed pushing boundaries thanks to the freedom of cable television.
However, following its TBS cancellation, the show will return to Fox for its next season, and, in doing so, will have to make a major adjustment to its storytelling. Now that the series is back on a major network, the show is going to have to cut back on its swearing. While this may seem like frustrating censorship, it’s actually a good thing for the Smiths.
The Censorship Rules That Come With the Network Shake-Up Are Good for ‘American Dad!’
Ever since moving from Fox to TBS for its 12th season, American Dad has enjoyed certain freedoms that other Animation Domination shows haven’t been able to. One of the main independences it has had is that of language. It’s no secret that there are limits regarding swear words and vulgarisms a show can use on the four main networks, and following its transition to TBS in 2014, American Dad had access to certain words and gags that were previously banned from the series. That being said, the show will, of course, have to adjust upon its network TV return.
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“I got a feeling that it’s gonna be a wonderful day!”
As reported by Variety, during a SDCC 2025 Comic Panel, executive producer Matt Weitzman addressed the change specifically: “The only thing that we’re gonna’ have to get used to is no longer being able to say ‘shit’ and ‘God damn it […]But you know what? We don’t have to find creative ways to be entertained.” This may sound rather jarring for loyal viewers of American Dad. After all, the show has built its legacy on shock value. That being said, the show is better off for the shake-up, especially considering how much longer it now gets to remain on the air.
‘American Dad!’ Has Been Renewed for Four More Seasons
American Dad! has an interesting legacy. The show has plenty of fans and, in some respects, has aged better than its sister series, Family Guy. However, the show hasn’t always received the same amount of recognition, partially due to it being on cable, away from the rest of the Fox line-up. Now with the move back to Fox, it has the chance to become more mainstream. In addition to the move, Fox has ensured that the Smith family will be around to entertain viewers for years to come, as the network has renewed the show for four seasons. “I’m just super excited to be able to say that we’re gonna’ be making another 56 episodes of American Dad,” said Weitzman. For those a bit skeptical about the show losing out on its cable privileges, it’s important to note that the show rarely ever used its cable advantage.
‘American Dad!’ Rarely Used Rough Language on Cable
Despite American Dad!’s more free use of swearing, the show has rarely relied on it to create genuine humor. Sure, there are usually one or two per episode, but it’s not what American Dad!‘s best episodes need to succeed. The real edge comes from the outlandish plotlines that, nearly 20 years later, continue to push boundaries. One needn’t look any further than Roger (Seth MacFarlane) for example. An undeniable fan-favorite, Roger’s greatest stories come from his shenanigans, not his swearing.
“Ricky Spanish” is perhaps Roger’s all-time greatest, bringing out his dramatics and even guest star, Werner Herzog. Indeed, outlandish creativity and boundary-pushing storytelling are far more important than occasional swearing, and that’s something the show can easily maintain, no matter the network on which it airs. In fact, being on network television only serves to elevate such writing. American Dad! has the chance to pursue an even more biting format, even if it has to part with its occasional foul language.
