Jesse Tyler Ferguson says he received criticism from gay viewers for 'stereotypical' Modern Family role

Jesse Tyler Ferguson recalls 'stereotypical' 'Modern Family' role criticism

Jesse Tyler Ferguson is opening up about criticism he received from some gay 'Modern Family' viewers that his character, Mitchell Pritchett, was too 'stereotypical.'

ew.com

Jesse Tyler Ferguson admits that while Modern Family broke ground portraying a gay couple on network TV, he still faced “stereotypical” critiques from within the LGBTQ+ community. Fans even launched a Facebook campaign demanding a kiss between Mitchell and Cam, and actor Tuc Watkins likened their portrayal to “blackface.” Ferguson shrugged it off, reminding everyone that he’s just playing one character—basically a version of himself—and can’t represent every gay experience.

Despite the backlash, Mitchell Pritchett remains an iconic TV dad, helping Modern Family rack up GLAAD wins, Emmy and Golden Globe noms, and a lasting queer legacy—right down to actress Aubrey Anderson-Emmons quoting the show when she came out bisexual. In Ferguson’s eyes, a little salt goes a long way when you’re only one guy telling one story.