Modern Family: 10 things that would've changed everything

Modern Family is a sitcom that's synonymous with hilarious and heartwarming moments. The show follows members of the Dunphy family, the Pritchett family, and the Pritchett-Tucker family through 11 seasons.

However, the reason the show is loved so much is that it just hits the right note. Even a slight change in the way things are in the sitcom could change how audiences perceive it. In this list, we will delve into the 10 things that, if different, would have changed the vibe of this fan-favorite sitcom. From different character arcs to different casts, this list has everything.

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1) The name of the series

The name Modern Family really shapes the perception of the sitcom. Not only is it apt, but it also creates a sense of warmth. Similar to how F.R.I.E.N.D.S revolved around a group of friends, Modern Family follows 3 eccentric but loving families that are related to each other. The way these individuals deal with their problems together justifies the title and also makes the show perfect for a cozy watch.

However, the show’s name was supposed to be My American Family initially. Yes, you read that right! According to USA Today, the show was pitched as a documentary titled My American Family. The idea was later scrapped in favor of the mockumentary show that fans love now.

With a different title, the show may not have been accepted by audiences as well as it did. This is because while Modern Family suggests that the show takes a modern look at how families have evolved over the years, the initial title would have led the viewers to expect that the show is more focused on American culture and values. Though the show is set in America, with the name Modern Family, it has resonated across cultures and countries.

2) Craig T. Nelson as Jay Pritchett

Did you know the role of our beloved Jay Pritchett was supposed to be played by Craig T. Nelson? Per IMDb, the makers were torn between both actors for the role. Craig T. Nelson is known for his roles in Parenthood and Coach. He is undoubtedly a talented actor with an amazing onscreen presence. However, it is hard to imagine Jay Pritchett being played by anyone other than Ed O’Neill.

One can wonder how Craig T. Nelson would have portrayed the role. His addition to the show would have changed the whole perspective undoubtedly. A significant casting change would have brought a completely different aspect. Ed O’Neill’s comedic timing and subtle ways to show his affections were just perfect for the role. While Craig T. Nelson is a talented actor, Ed O’Neill embodied Jay’s spirit perfectly.

3) Matt Le Blanc as Phil

In Modern Family, Ty Burrell’s performance as Phil Dunphy is impeccable. Not only has he won numerous awards for his performance as Phil, but also made a permanent place in the hearts of the fans of this series.

Did you know he was almost not given the role of Phil Dunphy? Matt LeBlanc was approached for the role of Phil Dunphy, per USA Today. However, he turned the offer down.

LeBlanc’s comedic style would have added a completely different touch to Phil’s character in Modern Family. The relationship dynamics may have changed if Matt LeBlanc took over Phil’s role. Though LeBlanc is a talented actor, it is hard to imagine anyone other than Ty Burrell in the role of the fun dad, Phil.

4) Britney Spears cameo

Cameos are definitely one of the most fun additions to any series. Over the years, the viewers of Modern Family have seen numerous cameos. We have seen actors from Kevin Hart to Kelsey Grammer. Each of these actors added immensely to the overall intrigue of the show.

However, many might not know that the famous pop singer Britney Spears loved the show and was rumoured to make a cameo. It is surreal to think about the energy and persona she would have brought to the show. Britney Spears’ cameo in Modern Family would have undoubtedly been a pop culture moment that would have been remembered for ages.

5) Judy Geer as Claire

Will you be able to imagine anyone other than Julie Bowen as Claire Dunphy in Modern Family? The answer is no. Julie Bowen has done a commendable job as Claire Dunphy. Throughout the series, Claire, with her quirks and her witty banter with her husband, Phil, is always fun to watch.

However, Judy Geer revealed in an episode of Dinner's On Me podcast with Jesse Tyler Ferguson that she was also asked to audition for the role. However, she turned down the offer, and eventually Bowen played it to perfection.

6) Jesse Tyler Ferguson could have been Cam

Our beloved drama queen, Cameron Tucker, would have been completely different if Jesse Tyler Ferguson played the role instead of Eric Stonestreet. In an interview with Out Magazine, Ferguson revealed that he wanted to audition for the role of Mitchell initially, but the casting directors wanted him to try for the role of Cam instead.

However, halfway through his audition, they understood that Ferguson would be perfect for Mitchell. It is hard to imagine anyone other than Eric Stonestreet as Cam. He perfectly captured the dramatic pronouncements that defined Cam.

However, if Jesse Tyler Ferguson played the role of Cameron it would have completely changed the role. Though Jesse Tyler Ferguson is a talented actor, viewers think he is the perfect fit for Mitchell.

7) Modern Family as an animation

The style of Modern Family as a mockumentary sitcom adds to the overall humor and entertainment of the show. The camera confessions we see along with the talent of the actors add to the realism of the show. This helps with the relatability factor of Modern Family. However, the show was once supposed to be animated.

In an interview with The Guardian, creators Christopher Lloyd and Steve Levitan revealed that they briefly toyed with the idea of making the show an animated series to cater to kids. However, the idea was short-lived as they already had an excellent cast in place.

Though an animation would have still been great to watch, it would have completely changed the dynamic of the show. Animating Modern Family would have lost the intimate connection the viewers have with the show. Moreover, we would have missed out on the amazing performances.

8) Cam and Mitchell’s wedding

It is hard to believe that Cam and Mitchell’s marriage might not have happened. Their story felt complete with the beautiful wedding they had with all the family members present and wishing them well. Their story was such an integral part of the show. The pair constantly provided the viewers with humor and entertainment with their loving and sometimes chaotic relationship.

They gave Lily and Rexford such a loving family and became the perfect loving dads. However, their marriage might not have happened. As the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in all 50 states, it became possible for the creators to show Cam and Mitch have the perfect wedding that they deserved.

9) An exchange student

There is a fun trivia behind Modern Family being a mockumentary-style sitcom. As we follow the Dunphys and the Prichetts, we see them sit in front of the camera, speaking about what had happened at the corresponding moment. Initially, an exchange student named Geert Floorjte was supposed to be a part of the show, per ScreenRant. They were talking to the camera because Geert was shooting them.

However, he was not added. His addition would have added a completely different touch to the show. The humor would have been more observational. Though his absence did not affect the overall impact of the show, one can always wonder about the what-ifs.

10) Andy and Haley could have been endgame

Played by the talented and versatile actor Adam Devine, Andy’s role in Modern Family is indispensable. Andy is a beloved character with a friendly relationship with all the family members. His relationship with Hayley has been praised by the viewers.

In a September 2024 tweet, Devine wrote that the writers wanted to bring him back towards the end of the show. However, due to scheduling conflicts, this did not happen, and eventually, Haley and Dylan get married and have twins.

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