Just like so many other mockumentary shows, Modern Family created a truly unique show. Throughout the show's 11 seasons, each episode had "talking heads" with each character from the beloved, diverse. A talking head is a private moment of commentary on a certain scenario going on in the show.
In fact, it was the talking heads that added some of the funniest moments in the series. It's a chance to break the fourth wall and give some insight to how the character is feeling in a certain situation. However, not every talking head was gold; some were sad and others were downright cringeworthy.
Best: Cam Defending Meryl Streep
When Cam and Mitchell first adopted Lily, they took her to a "Baby and Me" class to interact with other infants. The couple met a few different parents as they compared their daughter's development to the other children. To make small talk, Cameran and a woman started talking about Meryl Streep's acting capabilities, which of course led to Cam talking about her role in Sophie's Choice. The thought of choosing between Mitchell and Lily forced Cameran to tears in a hilarious talking head before he stormed off set.
Worst: Alex Calls Bill A Dummy
When Alex starts dating Bill in the ninth season, they seemed like a good match. They were both very different but clearly taken with one another. However, when Haley started dating her brilliant professor, Arvin, Alex began to compare Arvin and Bill and treat the latter horribly.
She called him a dummy in one talking head and later talked about him being eye candy while also being low-key embarrassed by him. It was a low moment for Alex because she was treating Bill the same way she treated Haley.
Best: Phil's Introduction To The Series
In the first episode of Modern Family, Phil's introduction to the series is iconic. Fans see the kind of dad he is by his dancing to High School Musical and knowledge of texting lingo. He's "hip" and he "surfs the web." But what's funnier was when he said he knew what "WTF" meant: why the face. Phil is so hilariously out of touch and naive, and fans can't help but adore his pureness.
Worst: When Claire's Selfish Side Comes Out
Claire and Phil are very different but they even each other out. They're the yin to the other's yang. They make sense. However, little by little, Claire's selfish and controlling side comes out. Fans know Claire's heart and understand she doesn't mean any harm, but she sometimes forgets to be humane.
She loses sight of marriage being a partnership and to giving Phil a say instead of always controlling the situation. The audience saw this when Claire was planning her summers and wanted to be kid-free. As funny as her truthful moments are, she also paints herself out as a villain.
Best: Cam & Gloria Excited About The Slumber Party
In the episode "Me? Jealous?," Mitch and Cameron have to stay at Gloria and Jay's for a few days. Mitch and Jay may have their ups and downs but Cam and Gloria get along famously. Together, they did an adorable talking head where they talk about their excitement for movie night. The two giggle with glee and shimmy to the camera like two best friends ready for the weekend. Moments between Cameron and Gloria are some of the best because the two have more in common with regards to fashion and design.
Worst: When Mitchell Body-Shamed Cam
As relatable and endearing as Mitch and Cam are, they sure do have some spiteful moments. The two love each other and created a life together, but they are very different. Like Claire, Mitch is also controlling and skeptical of everything, and this side comes out in talking heads.
In one episode, Cameron is on a health kick and began wearing bike shorts while running errands. The only problem is that Mitch didn't think he looked good in them. While looking at the camera, he said "Maybe there's a person out there who looks good in bike shorts, but my boyfriend is not that person." It's one thing to feel that way but it's how Mitchell went about telling Cam this information that made this one of the worst moments.
Best: Gloria's Honesty
With Gloria coming from Colombia, cultural differences and stereotypes are brought up often in Modern Family. And thanks to Gloria's thick accent, some of her words are lost in translation. However, whether viewers know what she's saying or not, there's one thing they have to commend her on: her honesty. According to her, her outbursts, episodes, and meltdowns are always valid because she is Latin.
Worst: Jay's Subtle Homophobia
Jay Pritchett has come a long way since season one. If fans can back to the first couple of seasons, Jay was subtly homophobic. His son was a happy gay man and yet Jay hid that fact from his friends, didn't want to see Mitch and Cam kiss, and didn't understand why he and Cam would want to get married in the first place. Luckily, Jay grew and evolved over time but those early episodes where he's ashamed of his son being an openly gay man were hard to watch.
Best: When Haley Finally Appreciated Her Parents
Haley is one lucky lady to have such ive parents like Phil and Claire. No matter how many times she messed up or disappointed them, her parents were always there. Annoyingly, it seemed like Haley didn't realize how good she had it. Claire and Phil may have been overbearing but she always had and comfort. It wasn't often Haley thanked her lucky stars for her parents but when she finally did, it was a good moment.
Worst: When No One Gives Phil The Birthday He Deserved
Say what you want about Phil's naivety, he's a fun dad and an even cooler spouse. He doesn't ask for much but when he does, his desires often fall on deaf ears. In one episode, Phil was expecting a surprise party with an iPad as his gift but nothing happened throughout the day. Phil was annoyed in his talking heads and noted that having low expectations was the only way to get through a disappointing birthday. Sadly, everyone did drop the ball for his birthday but Claire was able to pull off the iPad.