There are a number of developments, some more significant than others, that appear on the horizon for one of the best scripted shows on television, "Modern Family." Regardless of their significance, they all promise some interesting moments for the rest of the current season.
Some of these, we already know about. Will Cam and Mitchell succeed in adopting another child? So far, they have tried twice, that we know of, and had improper relations with the pooch, both times. Whether they succeed or not, we can be pretty sure they will keep on trying.
Speaking of improper relations, one new plot element that will be coming up in the near future is that Haley is no longer a virgin. Apparently, she has been of this new persuasion for some time. The shock to her loving, protective father Phil is compounded by his realization that Claire knew about that for a while, but never bothered to tell him. Naturally, this is nowhere close to being the shocking development it would have been 40 years ago, but it still should provide some grist for Ty Burrell, Julie Bowen and Sarah Hyland to have more than a few creative moments in the spotlight.
Another story we already know about is Claire's campaign to unseat Councilman Duane Bailey, played so despicably-well by David Cross. We can imagine a number of creative scenarios, whether she wins or loses.
Then too, there is Phil's adventurous career as an independent realtor. We will hear from that element of the show's story sooner rather than later. In the episode coming up on February 15, Phil will make a big sale. It is in the course of celebrating it that things will go a little haywire, as they invariably seem to do for the Dunphys. While it may matter little to our enjoyment of the show whether Claire does or does not win her election, we really have to root for Phil in his big adventure. Destitution would not suit that family at all well.
Speaking of Phil's career, we have already seen Greg Kinnear show up to get him started. There are supposedly plans afoot to have Ellen Barkin come on to the scene to see if she can get him finished. We can only imagine the havoc an actor of her ability can create, once she is cast as the villain.
Finally, we have just learned that, at some point, Cam's father will come sauntering by. Who might be playing that role, you ask. Well, do you remember an excellent show called "Northern Exposure?" If so, do you remember the irascible, arrogant Maurice Minnifield? That's right, Barry Corbin will be cast as Merle Tucker. That should make for a really interesting episode, when he does come to call.
"Modern Family," has lost a little of its edge in this, its third season (in spite of continued strong ratings), but it is still a show well worth watching. With all these interesting ingredients being thrown into the brew, it may just get itself back to where it belongs: at the top of the heap.
Sources
http://www.tvfanatic.com/shows/modern-family/
