The Family Guy Theme Song Lyrics are instantly recognizable to millions around the world. This catchy tune, setting the stage for each episode of the animated sitcom Family Guy, is more than just an introduction; it’s a satirical commentary on societal changes and a humorous ode to its dysfunctional protagonist, Peter Griffin. Let’s dive into the lyrics and explore what makes this theme song so iconic.
The song opens with a lament about the state of modern media, sung by Lois, Peter, Brian, and Stewie:
[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 verse immediately establishes the show’s satirical tone. It’s a comedic exaggeration of a common sentiment – the idea that media has become overly explicit and that traditional values are fading. Peter’s line adds to the humor by questioning these “good ‘ol fashioned values,” hinting at the show’s often irreverent take on nostalgia.
Brian and Stewie then chime in, continuing the theme of contrasting the past and present, this time focusing on celebrities and entertainment:
[Brian]
It use 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
This section escalates the satire. Brian evokes classic Hollywood glamour with references to Greta Garbo and Hedy Lamarr, icons of a bygone era. Stewie’s blunt and exaggerated reaction to modern celebrities like Jennifer Lopez (“whores”) is intentionally shocking and funny, highlighting the generational clash and the show’s provocative humor.
Then comes the chorus, the most memorable part of the Family Guy theme song lyrics:
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 chorus is ironic and celebratory at the same time. “Lucky there’s a Family Guy” is sung with an upbeat, almost heroic tone, yet it’s about Peter Griffin, a character known for his buffoonery and often questionable behavior. This contrast is central to the show’s humor. Stewie’s addition, “Laugh and cry,” acknowledges the show’s blend of comedy and sometimes surprisingly emotional moments.
The second verse continues the comparison of past and present, this time focusing on music and movies:
[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!
Lois reminisces about the “fair” songs of Johnny Mathis and Sonny and Cher, representing a more wholesome era of music. Peter’s interjection with “Justin Timber-homo” is deliberately crude and anachronistic, meant to be both offensive and humorous in its outdated slang and homophobic undertones. Lois’s exasperated “A heartache all gone awry!” underscores the generational and taste clash.
Brian and Stewie return to the theme of film quality:
[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?!
Brian praises “classic films” for their artistry and intelligence. Stewie’s outburst about Matrix Revolutions is a direct and comical critique of a specific modern movie, representing a perceived decline in film quality. His self-awareness about not rhyming (“I’m sorry I know this doesn’t rhyme”) adds to the meta-humor.
The chorus repeats, reinforcing the central ironic celebration of the “Family Guy.”
The third verse takes a turn towards more personal and raunchy humor, highlighting Peter’s specific, often inappropriate, actions:
[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
This verse showcases the family dynamic and Peter’s questionable parenting. Lois tries to find something positive (“His smile’s a simple delight”), but Chris immediately undercuts it with a crude revelation about Peter’s internet habits. Meg’s innocent appreciation for a hat Peter bought her is juxtaposed with Brian’s concerned reaction (“Yeah, we should have a talk about that”), hinting at the potentially inappropriate context.
The song continues with more absurd and offensive jokes, delivered by Brian, Stewie, Lois, and Peter:
About that! And his hat!
[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
Brian acknowledges Peter’s comedic talent, albeit sarcastically. Stewie’s “Hiroshima” joke followed by a fart is classic Stewie – dark, inappropriate, and absurd. Lois’s claim that Peter is “loaded with sexy appeal” is clearly ironic, set up for Peter’s crass and over-the-top response, offering to let someone feel his “titties.” Brian and Stewie’s disgusted reactions further emphasize the humor.
The final verse brings in references to classic TV sitcoms, The Brady Bunch and The Dick Van Dyke Show:
[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
Lois compares Peter unfavorably to the idealized TV dads of the past, Mike Brady and Dick Van Dyke’s character. The question “But who around here could fill those loafers?” sets up the final chorus as the “happy reply.”
The chorus returns one last time, followed by a simple repetition of “He’s a Family Guy!” to conclude the song.
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!
In conclusion, the Family Guy theme song lyrics are a masterclass in satire and comedic songwriting. They effectively set the tone for the show, introducing its irreverent humor, generational commentary, and focus on the often-inappropriate antics of Peter Griffin. The song’s catchiness and memorable lyrics have contributed significantly to Family Guy‘s enduring popularity, making it one of the most recognizable animated sitcom theme songs in television history.
