Seth MacFarlane Oscars: Why Did The 'Family Guy' Creator Turn Down 2014 Gig

Seth MacFarlane's hosting gig at the 2013 Oscars was somewhat reminiscent of the manic humor one Billy Crystal used to bring to the stage in Hollywood. However, unlike what Robert DeNiro's "new friend" in "Analyze This" & "Analyze That" repeated multiple years in a row, the creator of "Family Guy" said Monday he will not be returning; as himself, nor as Ted, the potty-mouthed stuffed bear.

Instead, he cited his schedule, which includes voicing Peter and Stewie Griffin among others, trumps any reappearance next year as host or special animated guest.

"Traumatized critics exhale: I'm unable to do the Oscars again," MacFarlane tweeted.

The Hollywood Reporter remarked that a number of hosts since Crystal, including David Letterman and James Franco, have also been one hit wonders at the Oscars, likely due to its high profile and requisite intense preparation.

MacFarlane said he "highly recommend[s]" the hosting job, calling returning producers Neil Meron and Craig Zadan "two of the most talented producers in the business." Likely jokingly, MacFarlane added his favorite pick to succeed him as host of the 2014 Oscars: eccentric actor Joaquin Phoenix.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, Zadan and Meron "voiced interest" in MacFarlane returning next year.