Family Guy, the iconic American television show, has been entertaining audiences for over two decades, thanks in large part to the lovable and diabolical infant, Stewie. With over 400 episodes under its belt, the show has masterfully showcased Stewie’s genius, wit, and dark side in countless episodes. From his attempts to take over the world to his struggles with his family, Stewie has become a fan favorite.
One of Stewie’s most impressive episodes is “The Stewaway” where he becomes obsessed with playing hide-and-seek and ends up getting on a plane to Paris with his unsuspecting babysitter, Quagmire. The unlikely duo’s escapades make for a hilarious and entertaining episode. In contrast, “Chap Stewie” showcases Stewie’s vulnerability and his ability to learn from his mistakes as he travels back in time to ensure his parents never got together, only to realize that he misses his family and is grateful for their quirks.
Stewie’s romantic side is explored in “Dammit, Janet!” where he falls for a quiet girl named Janet and learns the hard way that sometimes love can be a difficult game. The episode features a musical number and showcases Stewie’s sensitive side. However, his darker side is on full display in “When Stewie Goes to Therapy” which delves into his psyche and reveals his true sadistic nature.
In addition, “The Talented Mr. Stewie” parodies the film, The Talented Mr. Ripley, as Stewie’s insatiable desire to kill Chris and Rupert takes center stage. Stewie’s insecurities about not packing proper dinner attire come to the forefront in “And Then There Were Fewer”, a hilarious murder mystery parody that showcases Stewie’s insecurities.
The episode “Baby Not on Board” is a nod to the classic Christmas movie, Home Alone, as Stewie uses his resourcefulness to survive on his own during the holidays. Meanwhile, “Go, Stewie, Go” parodies the 1980s romantic comedy, Tootsie, as Stewie auditions as a girl and highlights his dramatic side.
Stewie in Family Guy (Photo: Family Guy)
In “The Tan Aquatic with Steve Zissou”, Stewie becomes obsessed with his tan and develops a new personality, featuring cultural references from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and Three’s Company. Stewie’s rivalry with Olivia is the central plot of “From Method to Madness”, an episode that showcases his competitive streak and his ability to connect with others.
When Brian forgets where he buried his favorite tennis ball, Stewie uses his time machine to take them back to the pilot episode in “Back to the Pilot”, a nostalgic nod to the show’s original low budget and mistakes. In “Road to Rupert”, Stewie and Brian go on a road trip to Colorado to retrieve Stewie’s beloved teddy bear, Rupert, which is a nod to the classic comedies starring Bob Hope and Bing Crosby.
Stewie’s attempts to kill Lois are the focal point of “Stewie Kills Lois, Lois Kills Stewie”, a two-part episode that showcases Stewie’s darker side and his vulnerability. Stewie and Brian’s adventures through different parallel universes in “Road to the Multiverse” are a clever and entertaining episode that showcases Stewie’s problem-solving skills and creativity.
Finally, “Stewie Loves Lois” stands out as a standout episode that showcases Stewie’s rare vulnerability and his ability to form attachments with others. The episode highlights Stewie’s softer side and is a must-watch for fans of the character.
