In their latest episode, Brian, the family dog was tragically hit by a speeding car in their neighborhood. The heartfelt episode of Family guy brought tears to many of its fans, when the infant Stewie couldn't bring back his friend after getting rid of his devious time machine.

His character was replaced by another dog, Vinny who seemed like a good character but it still made it all the more surreal to have Brian killed in such a way. This was aired in the episode "Life of Brian" that was one of the most shocking episodes of the cartoon series. Seth MacFarlane has not given his reaction on the killing of Brian as he voiced most of the characters on the show, including Stewie.

Fans were shocked that the producers were able to kill a very essential character for the long running cartoon series "Family Guy." Various reactions were given and all were demanding that they bring back the beloved family dog that they have watched for almost 15 years of the cartoon's airing.

People started an online petition to bring back Brian. The good news is that they may have succeeded as recent reports show that in the next episode, the December 15th episode titled "Christmas Guy," would show Stewie wishing for Brian to come back. Entertainment Weekly has also confirmed that the character will be in the episode and will make appearances in other episodes as well.

Before fans get carried away with their online petitions, they should know that the producers actually intended for Brian to get killed to gain the huge attention it has been getting. They had even said that it was intended to happen eventually and many were shocked at "why" they had to do it.

FOX is however keeping hush about the return of the character but we hope that they give their fans what they want this Christmas and that is to give them Brian, the family dog back on "Family Guy".