Home / Arts and Entertainment / Modern Family Star Faced Backlash From Queer Community
Modern Family Star Faced Backlash From Queer Community
28 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Jesse Tyler Ferguson received criticism for his portrayal of Mitch.
- Some LGBTQ+ viewers felt the character was a stereotype.
- Ferguson largely played Mitch based on his own personality.
Modern Family actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson recently disclosed facing criticism for his portrayal of Mitchell Pritchett, with some feedback coming from the LGBTQ+ community. While the series was celebrated for its representation during its 11-season run, Ferguson shared in a podcast interview that certain queer viewers perceived his character as a stereotype. This criticism emerged during a time when the show was making strides in depicting LGBTQ+ relationships on television.
Ferguson, who garnered multiple Emmy nominations for his role, noted that he embodied Mitch Pritchett quite closely to his own persona. This personal connection to the character, he explained, made the perception of playing a stereotype particularly unexpected and impactful. He felt that if the character was perceived as a stereotype, it reflected aspects of himself off-screen.
Modern Family aired for 11 seasons and is available for streaming. Ferguson has continued his acting career, recently appearing on stage in a production of Twelfth Night. His experiences highlight the complex reception even groundbreaking representation can receive.
