Modern Family is an American television mockumentary family sitcom. The series follows 3 different, but related families through everyday adventures. Every 22 minute episode jumps back and forth between the three families and intertwines their daily activities together. The show is flooded with controversial themes about what it means to be a family in modern society.
One reason that Modern Family as a series was so successful was because they reinforced themes of family roles, cultural stereotypes and homosexual stereotypes throughout all 11 seasons. As characters aged and relationships changed, these themes stayed consistent, usually teaching new lessons at the end of every episode. Contrary to mainstream values or the consensus narrative, Modern Family pushed the boundaries of controversial themes.With the recurring challenging themes that Modern Family tackles, they begin to become normalized.
The balance element is clear in each family with the clear distinction between each couple. Take Jay and Gloria for example. Jay is a traditional middle aged man who is the head of his family and takes this role very seriously. He is often strict and unwilling to change his traditional no nonsense ways. His wife, Gloria on the other hand is a fiesty, fun loving housewife who is more than 20 years younger than her husband. Her cultural barrier creates tension within the household and between other family members. Despite these “challenges” Gloria is accepted into the family and often coached on American traditions, while Jay is encouraged to ease up and have fun in life. The two show that opposites can attract and make a successful marriage.
In season 10 of Modern Family we begin to see evolution when the reckless daughter, Haley, gets pregnant. Within one short season, Haley transitioned from a free spirited, party girl to a mother at a young age in unplanned circumstances. The show contains hierarchical elements in stereotyping certain elements. While the show aims to bring light to common stereotypes of the different themes presented, it also uses humor when the characters make fun of their own stereotypes.
The irregularity of Modern Family is what makes the show a comedic masterpiece.
Theresa Tumminello 