ALF is a furry, wise cracking and sarcastic alien life form from the planet Melmac who has a love for eating cats and making whimsical jokes. ALF is formerly known as Gordon Shumway by his family and friends, but he refers to himself as ALF to newcomers. ALF's planet blew up on the day of his birthday, it was tragic because he seemed to be the only one who escaped. ALF crash lands his spaceship into the Tanner family's garage on Earth, they take care of him despite his tiresome antics.