 First announced at the 2011 San Diego Comic @-@ Con International , the episode was written by Gary Janetti and directed by Julius Wu . It received mixed reviews from critics . According to Nielsen ratings , it was viewed in 5 @.@ 73 million homes in its original airing . In addition to Reynolds , who voiced himself , the episode featured guest performances by Adam Alexi @-@ Malle , Ralph Garman , Joe Lomonaco , Rachael MacFarlane and Tara Strong , along with several recurring guest voice actors . 
