‘Modern Family’ Season 11: Big surprise awaits Phil in episode 12 while Mitch hosts an unexpected guest

‘Modern Family’ Season 11 with its hair-trigger emotions in ‘Legacy’ tugged at heartstrings of the viewers, who had begun to express their disinterest in the sitcom for turning too predictable and repetitive. 
 
While the long-running TV series took us aback by writing off one of the most beloved characters, Frank Dunphy (Fred Willard), father of Phil Dunphy (Ty Burrell), we couldn’t help but wonder if we would see ourselves bidding goodbye to more characters before the show concludes. 

Episode 11 ended on a heart-wrenching note by showcasing Phil’s off-beat tribute to his father. As another one bites the dust, the preview of the upcoming episode teases us with surprises and opportunities that await the members of the Pritchett-Dunphy-Tucker households. The official synopsis for ‘Dead on Rival’ reads, “Mitchell learns a valuable life lesson when a former resident of the house shows up unexpectedly. The Dunphy’s old neighbor-turned-tech-titan, Kenneth, comes to visit with a big surprise for Phil. Manny’s dad has a big opportunity for his son.”

Although the synopsis doesn’t give away much, we can foresee what could possibly unfold in the characters’ respective lives. Over the course of the current season, ‘Modern Family’ has showcased recurring issues in Mitch (Jesse Tyler Ferguson) and Cam’s (Eric Streetstone) marriage. They are mostly seen divided over personal and professional interests, garnering criticism about uncertainty in their relationship. 

Perhaps, revisiting the happy memories with Cam, enabling himself to work on their marital issues in the presence of an old resident could be the life lesson Mitch might be seen learning in the next episode. For over a decade we have explored Phil’s love for gadgets. Therefore, Kenneth’s big surprise for Phil could be a smart innovation that helps him cherish the sweet memories of his father forever. 

Meanwhile, Manny during ‘The Last Christmas’ expressed his desire to pursue further studies in drama. Therefore, admissions to the school of his choice in London could be the big opportunity presented to him by his father. Nevertheless, considering what the creators did with Frank, we need to wait until ‘Dead on Rival’ premieres tonight on ABC, to see what happens to the rest of the characters on ‘Modern Family’ Season 11.