Just two weeks after Microsoft (MSFT) announced an innovative marketing partnership with News Corp.'s (NWS) Fox Network, the software giant has pulled its sponsorship of the deal's centerpiece: a 30-minute, commercial-free variety show by Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane, which was to promote the new Windows 7 operating system. Microsoft cited problems with the content of the show, which was supposed to air on Fox at 8:30 p.m. on Nov. 8.
"We initially chose to participate in the Seth and Alex variety show based on the audience composition and creative humor of Family Guy," wrote a Microsoft spokesperson in a statement. "But after reviewing an early version of the variety show, it became clear that the content was not a fit with the Windows brand."
The spokesperson declined to elaborate, except to say that Microsoft will continue to advertise on Fox and Family Guy, and that other parts of the deal—including a 12-week college tour featuring Windows 7 and Family Guy-themed events—remain intact. Family Guy, the Fox cartoon created by Macfarlane, draws a large audience and this year was nominated for an Emmy for Best Comedy series. But it is known for a raunchy sense of humor and a willingness to push the limits of tastefulness. Earlier this year, MacFarlane wrote an episode taking a humorous approach to abortion, which Fox refused to air.
On October 13, Fox and Microsoft jointly issued a press release about the upcoming variety show, which would have both live and animated segments and went by the working title, "Family Guy Presents: Seth & Alex's Almost Live Comedy Show." According to the release, the program would "deliver simplicity for viewers—no commercial ad time, no network promotions, and no commercial breaks—and instead will feature unique Windows 7-branded programming that blends seamlessly with show content." It went on to say it would "bring the old Texaco Star Theater-style sponsorships into the 21st century," referring to the live variety show from the 1940s and '50s, which featured songs and skits about the Texaco brand.
