Seth MacFarlane has a plan for Yaphit if The Orville is renewed

The Orville: New Horizons’ creator, Seth MacFarlane, has something in mind for Yaphit.

The premiere of The Orville: New Horizons on Hulu on June 2 was dedicated to Norm MacDonald, the comedic genuis who brought the gelantinous Yaphit to life aboard the ship for the prior two seasons. MacDonald passed away last September after a nine-year battle with leukemia. Fans grieved the loss of the comedian as well as the loss of the wise-cracking lieutenant. While his role wasn’t big on The Orville, MacDonald brought an amazing amount of joie de vivre to each scene with just his voice.

So it’s not surprising that the subject of Yaphit would come up during Yahoo Entertainment’s interview with MacFarlane. The creator and star of the series was asked if Yaphit’s time aboard the ship would end with the finale of season three, and MacFarlane’s answer surprised more than just the fans.

Seth MacFarlane is a master creator so it’s no wonder he is prepared.

MacFarlane told Yahoo Entertainment that there is a plan when it comes to Yaphit should the series be picked up for a fourth season. He emphasized that they wouldn’t do the lieutenant without MacDonald, but they know how they are going to handle things in the event of a renewal.

"“We do have a plan. We would not do Yaphit without Norm, but there is a plan for how we are going to handle it if we are lucky enough to do Season 4.”"

MacFarlane’s reply came as a shock to Brannon Braga and his fellow executive producers David A. Goodman and Jon Cassar. Goodman admitted it was the first time he was hearing about the plan, and Braga called it “exciting.” So apparently, the producers have a lot to discuss.

At present, The Orville: New Horizons hasn’t been renewed for a fourth season as it’s largely dependent upon whether season three pulls in a strong enough audience to warrant a renewal.