While Seth MacFarlane is best known as the razor-sharp comedic mind behind Family Guy, Ted, and The Orville, there’s another side to him that often surprises fans: his deep love for Frank Sinatra and the Great American Songbook. Far from the crude humor of Stewie Griffin, MacFarlane is a devoted jazz and swing enthusiast, even releasing multiple albums of classic standards.
From “Family Guy” to Frank: MacFarlane’s Musical Journey
MacFarlane’s fascination with Sinatra and mid-century music isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifelong passion. Growing up, he was heavily influenced by his father, who played big band records at home. He studied music at the Rhode Island School of Design and even considered a career in singing before Family Guy catapulted him into comedy stardom.
But despite his success in animation, he never abandoned his love for the classics. In interviews, MacFarlane has often cited Sinatra as one of his biggest inspirations, praising his phrasing, tone, and effortless cool.
A Second Career as a Crooner
Since 2010, MacFarlane has released five studio albums of jazz and swing standards, all recorded with live orchestras in the style of Sinatra and Dean Martin. His debut, Music Is Better Than Words (2011), even won a Grammy for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album.
His other albums include:
- Holiday for Swing (2014) – A festive big band collection
- No One Ever Tells You (2015) – A mix of romantic ballads and upbeat swing
- In Full Swing (2017) – Featuring classics like “The Lady Is a Tramp”
- Great Songs from Stage & Screen (2018) – Broadway and Hollywood classics
MacFarlane doesn’t just imitate Sinatra—he brings his own smooth, rich baritone to the genre, earning respect from jazz musicians and critics alike.
Bringing Sinatra to TV and Film
His love for this music isn’t confined to albums. MacFarlane has woven it into his TV shows:
- Family Guy often features big band and jazz cuts, including full musical numbers.
- The Orville included an episode where his character, Captain Ed Mercer, sings “Beyond the Sea.”
- He hosted Seth MacFarlane’s Cavalcade of Cartoon Comedy, which used vintage-style music.
He even performed at the 2013 Oscars, singing a Family Guy-themed version of “We Saw Your Boobs” before transitioning into a sincere tribute to movie musicals.
Why Sinatra? MacFarlane’s Take on the Legend
In interviews, MacFarlane has explained that Sinatra represents a lost era of sophistication in music.
“There’s an elegance to that period that we don’t have anymore,” he told The Hollywood Reporter. “Sinatra wasn’t just a singer—he was an interpreter of stories. Every song was a three-act play.”
He also admires how Sinatra’s music was live, raw, and unfiltered—unlike today’s heavily produced pop.
What’s Next for MacFarlane’s Music Career?
While he’s busy with Ted and The Orville, MacFarlane hasn’t ruled out more music. He’s performed at venues like the Hollywood Bowl and Carnegie Hall, and fans hope for another album soon.
Final Thought: A Man of Contrasts
Seth MacFarlane may be the king of animated raunch, but his Sinatra obsession proves there’s more to him than dick jokes. Whether he’s voicing Peter Griffin or crooning “Fly Me to the Moon,” one thing’s clear: his love for classic music is no act
Would you listen to a full MacFarlane Sinatra tribute tour? Let us know in the comments!
Seth MacFarlane’s Love for Sinatra: A Surprising Passion
Beyond his famous crude cartoons, Seth MacFarlane has a deep love for Frank Sinatra and classic jazz. He admires Sinatra’s storytelling through music—something he feels is missing in today’s pop.
MacFarlane has even released his own jazz albums, won a Grammy, and performed at top venues like the Hollywood Bowl. Though busy with Ted and The Orville, his occasional concerts prove music remains a big part of his life.
Who knew the Family Guy creator had such a smooth, sophisticated side? Would you go see him perform Sinatra live?