“Family Guy” creator Seth MacFarlane wasn’t aware that the backlash on Brian Griffin’s death would be massive. The Fox animated show shocked viewers in late 2013 when one of the main characters was killed off, only to be revived a couple of episodes and a worldwide fan protest later.

In November, fans were surprised and outraged when Brian, the show’s canine companion and one of the main characters, was killed by a car. Fans of the cartoon series took it online to revolt, demanding that MacFarlane and the producers bring Brian back.

MacFarlane remained silent during the commotion, apparently satisfied to watch the show’s viewers simmer in their own anger. But after two more Brian-less episodes of the program, MacFarlane finally spoke up when they decided to bring the talking dog back.

I mean, you didn't really think we'd kill off Brian, did you? Jesus, we'd have to be fucking high.

— Seth MacFarlane (@SethMacFarlane) December 16, 2013

On Monday, the producer/writer/actor, who also voices Brian and other characters in “Family Guy,” opened up about the fans’ extreme reaction to their stunt.

“It surprised all of us,” he told reporters, as quoted by Entertainment Weekly. “We were all very surprised, in a good way, that people still cared enough about that character to be that angry. We thought it would create a little bit of a stir, but the rage wasn’t something we counted on.”

But why even do it in the first place?

The 40-year-old Emmy Award winner admitted that killing off Brian was a clever move to bring up the show’s ratings.

“It did what it was designed to do – it reminded people this is still a show where anything can happen despite the fact it’s been on for a while.”

“Family Guy” first aired in 1999 until it was cancelled in 2003. It was later revived in 2005.

Fans don’t have to worry about MacFarlane and the rest of the show’s producers pulling another stunt like that.

“Would I do it again? No. We already did it,” MacFarlane said.

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