An upcoming episode of animated comedy hit Family Guy will not air on TV in America - because network bosses felt the plot was too outrageous.

Show creator and writer Seth MacFarlane admits he thought TV chiefs would find his abortion-themed episode a little too much, but he's grateful they allowed him to make it before passing judgment.

He says, "They seemed to feel that we walked the line as delicately as possible, but my hunch is this was simply a corporate decision that this subject matter wouldn't fly on air."

MacFarlane tells TV Guide magazine the controversial episode will be released as part of a future DVD box set.