Ep 3. The Old Man and the Big C

When it comes to animated sitcoms, there are few that can claim to be as successful or influential as Family Guy. Since its debut in 1999, the show has become famous for its irreverent humor, biting satire, and willingness to take on taboo subjects with gusto. And while some might argue that the quality of the show has declined in recent years, there's no denying that there are still episodes that stand out for their creativity, humor, and heart. One such episode is season 11's "The Old Man and the Big C," which manages to be both hilarious and poignant while tackling the difficult subject of cancer.

The episode centers around Peter's father, Francis, who has a long history of being a difficult and unpleasant person. Despite this, Peter feels compelled to visit him in Florida after receiving a call from his sister, Karen, informing him that Francis has been diagnosed with cancer. Peter's initial plan is to visit his father, say some hurtful things, and then leave, but things quickly take a turn when he discovers that Francis is actually a changed man.

Instead of being angry and bitter, Francis is now kind, grateful, and eager to make amends with his family. He apologizes for his past mistakes and expresses his love for Peter and his grandchildren. Naturally, Peter is skeptical of this newfound behavior, but after spending more time with his father and seeing the positive changes in him, he begins to soften.

The episode explores the complex emotions that come with a cancer diagnosis, both for the patient and their loved ones. While Francis is outwardly optimistic about his prognosis, Karen and Peter are both struggling with the reality of losing their father. There are moments of levity, of course, such as when Peter and his dad go on a wild joyride in a stolen golf cart, but there are also moments of real pathos, such as when Francis breaks down in tears, admitting that he's scared of dying.

One of the most effective things about the episode is the way it deals with the idea of forgiveness. Francis has been a terrible father to Peter his entire life, but now that he's dying, Peter is faced with the choice of whether or not to forgive him. The episode doesn't pull any punches in showing how difficult this can be, but it ultimately comes down on the side of forgiveness. It suggests that even the worst people have the potential for redemption and that it's important to let go of grudges and resentments in order to find peace.

As always, the episode is packed with references to pop culture and current events. There are jokes about Viagra, Honey Boo Boo, and the new pope, to name just a few. But unlike some other episodes of the show, these references don't feel forced or shoehorned in. They're all in service of the story and the characters, and they help to create a sense of verisimilitude in the world of the show.

Overall, "The Old Man and the Big C" is a standout episode of Family Guy. It manages to be both funny and moving, and it deals with its subject matter in a way that is both honest and respectful. It's a reminder that even in a show known for its outrageous humor and cutaway gags, there is still room for genuine emotion and depth. Whether you're a diehard fan of the show or a casual viewer, this episode is definitely worth watching.