Fox Brings Back 'American Dad!' for 20th Season

The animated comedy series returns to its original network with new episodes airing Sundays.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Season 20 of the animated sitcom "American Dad!" is premiering on Fox this Sunday, February 22nd, at 9 p.m. ET/PT. The show, which follows the Smith family and their alien housemate Roger, originally debuted on Fox in 2005 before moving to TBS in 2014. After a multi-year absence, the series is now returning to its original network as part of Fox's "Animation Domination" block of adult animated comedies.

Why it matters

"American Dad!" has maintained a loyal fanbase over its two-decade run, with viewers eager to see the Smith family's latest antics. The show's return to Fox is a win for the network as it continues to strengthen its Sunday night animation lineup, which includes long-running hits like "The Simpsons" and "Family Guy."

The details

In the upcoming season, viewers can expect storylines involving the family throwing a pool party and discovering what appears to be a rat, as well as tensions between Stan and Francine over their differing interests. Executive Producer and Showrunner Matt Weitzman expressed gratitude that the series has been able to continue for so long, noting the team's joy in working on a project they love with many creative voices.

  • Season 20 of "American Dad!" premieres on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
  • New episodes will air on Sundays and be available to stream the following day on Hulu.

The players

American Dad!

An animated sitcom that follows the Smith family and their alien housemate Roger as they navigate family life and growing up.

Fox

The television network that originally aired "American Dad!" from 2005 to 2014 and is now bringing the series back for at least four more seasons as part of its "Animation Domination" programming block.

Seth MacFarlane

The creator of "American Dad!" who also voices the family patriarch Stan Smith and the alien Roger.

Matt Weitzman

The executive producer and showrunner of "American Dad!" who expressed gratitude for the show's longevity and the creative team behind it.

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What’s next

Fans can look forward to new episodes of "American Dad!" airing on Fox every Sunday at 9 p.m. ET/PT, with the episodes also available to stream the following day on Hulu.

The takeaway

The return of "American Dad!" to its original network Fox is a testament to the show's enduring popularity and the loyalty of its fanbase. The series' ability to maintain a dedicated following over two decades, despite being canceled and revived, underscores the power of well-crafted animated comedies to captivate audiences across generations.