‘Modern Family’ Star Reflects on Criticism of His Character

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I was really surprised to learn that Jesse Tyler Ferguson, who played Mitch on Modern Family, actually dealt with criticism while the show was on. Modern Family was such a huge hit, running for eleven seasons and showing a really relatable, if sometimes messy, family in LA. Jesse and Eric Stonestreet were such a sweet couple on screen, and it’s upsetting to hear that Jesse got backlash from some fans just for playing a gay character. It just shows you can’t please everyone, even when you’re part of something so beloved.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson recently discussed facing criticism for his portrayal of Mitch Pritchett on his podcast, Dinner’s On Me. He recalled being told his performance relied on stereotypes, which surprisingly came from members of the LGBTQ+ community – a community he himself is a part of, along with his husband Justin Mikita and their family. He shared this memory while speaking with his co-star, Russell Tovey.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson on the Pressure of Playing… Himself


ABC

During the discussion, Ferguson shared that he anticipated some negative feedback from viewers unaccustomed to seeing a gay character on TV. He explained that being openly gay on a popular show like Modern Family always came with some level of criticism, as is common with any public work. However, he found the most painful criticism came from within his own LGBTQ+ community.

The most common criticism I received seemed to come from the LGBTQ+ community, who felt I didn’t portray gay relationships or gay men in a way that aligned with their expectations. I didn’t really take these comments to heart, though.

I was playing a single character, and that character reflected parts of my own personality. So, if the portrayal came across as stereotypical, it was because I was, in a way, being myself. I readily admit to that.

The way Modern Family portrayed Cam and Mitch’s marriage was truly significant. What made it stand out was that the humor wasn’t based on them being gay; it focused on their personalities and the everyday challenges and joys of marriage, just like any other couple. They were simply two funny, loving people whose relationship went beyond typical stereotypes.

Although LGBTQ+ characters have appeared on TV for many years, they were often minor characters who didn’t openly discuss their sexuality. Ellen DeGeneres’ character, Ellen Morgan, was one of the first to come out, and a year earlier, Friends featured the first lesbian wedding on American television. Characters like Cam and Mitch from Modern Family are important steps forward, and it’s hoped that future actors playing similar roles won’t be unfairly compared to existing stereotypes.

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2025-11-30 18:34