The much-anticipated partnership between Microsoft and US TV show Family Guy to promote Windows 7 has been canned by the former after it took offence at a number of scenes in the planned episode.

In the 30-minute, advert-free offering by Seth MacFarlane, the creator of Family Guy, it was decided that it was simply not right for the brand.

It is understood that jokes referring to feminine hygiene, deaf people and the Holocaust were enough to push the software developer over the edge.

Speaking about the venture, Microsoft said in a statement: "We initially chose to participate in the Seth and Alex variety show based on the audience composition and creative humour of Family Guy.

"But after reviewing an early version of the variety show, it became clear that the content was not a fit with the Windows brand."

Earlier this month, it was revealed that a corn field at Connors Farm in Massachusetts is now home to a maze in the shape of Brian and Stewie Griffin, two of Family Guy's main characters.

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