Microsoft Backs Out of Family Guy Special Sponsorship

Apparently, Microsoft wasn't quite ready for prime time. At least, not when it comes to having their company name and the Windows brand linked to Seth MacFarlane's controversial brand of humor. "Family Guy Presents: Seth & Alex's Almost Live Comedy Show" is set to air on November 8 and Microsoft was originally slated to be the sole sponsor of the show, with advertising and branding integrated throughout the production of the show.

But after viewing and advanced screening of the special, which was taped earlier in October, Microsoft has decided to back out of its sponsorship deal. Apparently, the show is a bit too risque for Microsoft, even as the company is trying to push its image a little more toward the "edgy" than it's ever been in the past.

Now that Microsoft is out, there is no word as to which company will take the role of the integrated sponsor. Family Guy has developed one of the most loyal fan followings of any show in recent years, so it will be interesting to see which company emerges to try to capitalize on the show's primary demographic.

It would have to be a company with deep pockets who believes that it can effectively leverage an alignment with Family Guy's raw humor, all without damaging its brand image in other areas. I'm guessing it will have to be a company catering to the younger set, almost exclusively. Twitter, anyone?