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 even though Modern Family was hailed for its queer representation, some in the LGBTQ+ community found his Mitchell Pritchett “stereotypical” or not authentic enough—so much so that fans launched a Facebook campaign demanding Mitch and Cam share a kiss, and actor Tuc Watkins once likened the duo to “the gay equivalent of blackface.” Ferguson says he always took those critiques “with a grain of salt,” pointing out that he’s just playing one character (a version of himself), not a spokesperson for every gay person.

Still, the show’s impact was huge: every season snagged GLAAD Media Award noms (winning twice) and earned Ferguson five Emmy nods. Modern Family has left a lasting legacy—from award wins to inspiring cast member Aubrey Anderson-Emmons (Lily) to come out as bisexual—proof that even a single sitcom character can open doors for bigger conversations.