I recently revisited American Dad! and found myself reflecting on why it’s perhaps best to avoid Season 1 altogether. Created by Seth MacFarlane—who is also the mastermind behind Family Guy—American Dad! has enjoyed an impressive run with approximately 20 seasons, depending on how one chooses to categorize the episodes. Season 21 is set to air in late 2024, which speaks to the show’s longevity and enduring appeal.
At its core, American Dad! follows the absurd yet entertaining lives of CIA agent Stan Smith and his quirky family in Langley Falls, Virginia. The series is renowned for its adult humor and unique character dynamics, particularly the clashes between Stan’s hyper-masculine conservatism and the more liberal tendencies of his family. While its minimalist 2D animation style renders it easily watchable, it’s worth noting that some seasons clearly overshadow others.
Upon rewatching, I came to realize that Season 1 could be considered the weakest link in the series. This reputation largely hinges on Stan’s character portrayal. Voiced by MacFarlane himself, Stan was initially conceived as a conservative foil to the show’s humor, yet his character seems misaligned in this early phase. Instead of firmly establishing him through strong ideological stances, the storytelling opts instead for universal emotional conflicts, which eventually lends itself to more relatable comedy.
Fortunately, as the series progressed, it undertook a more thoughtful evolution in Stan’s character. Rather than presenting a static representation of conservatism, the show allows Stan to mature, ultimately transforming him into a more complex and approachable character. This development sets him apart from counterparts like Peter Griffin from Family Guy, as the former becomes a more genuine figure through enhanced characterization.
American Dad! also struggled initially to carve out its own identity. In its debut season, it leaned heavily on political satire, a risky move given the rapid pace at which political contexts shift. Over time, however, the series embraced its absurdity, particularly in its depiction of Roger, the eccentric alien resident of the Smith household. The animation style itself evolved into a more consistent aesthetic compared to its early offerings, which only deepens the series’ appeal as it matures.
The critical reception of the seasons reflects this change; Season 1 struggles with a low score of 80% on the Popcornmeter, while by Season 4, it climbs to a commendable 94%. In comparison with Family Guy, which is often rated lower, American Dad! emerges as a more polished adult animated series with a wealth of memorable episodes. Given these circumstances, perhaps it’s wise to skip Season 1 entirely and dive straight into the series at its higher points. After all, it’s in those subsequent seasons where the series truly shines, offering a richer and more entertaining viewing experience.
