Family Guy could be changing channels in the UK, according to reports.

The Seth McFarlane animated sitcom has aired on BBC Three in the UK since 1999, where it pulls in some of the channel’s highest viewing figures, but, according to the Radio Times, executives for the programme have been meeting with ITV.

US network Fox makes the series and some of their executives are said to have met with ITV, apparently being escorted to the talks via a specially-decorated lift at the UK broadcaster’s offices which contained a picture of the cartoon’s Griffin family, an ITV logo and the slogan, “Together as one freakin’ family”.

Family Guy
Family Guy is a big hit on BBC Three (BBC)

ITV are thought to be preparing a bid to take over screening the comedy as BBC Three’s proposed move online will affect its budget to attract big name buy-ins as well as its capacity to make programmes.

The channel recently announced that In The Flesh would not be recommissioned because BBC Three could only afford to make one original drama series each year.

ITV2 is said to be aiming to re-market itself as the broadcaster’s home of comedy, so Family Guy could find itself on that channel if a deal with ITV does go ahead.

ITV have not commented on the possible change of channel for Family Guy, but a BBC tweet suggested any changes won’t be happening imminently.