‘Modern Family’ Season 11 Episode 10: Claire and Phil worry about becoming empty nesters as Dunphy kids want to go away

Be it for their constant bickering or the never-ending chaos, the Dunphy household of ‘Modern Family’ has grown to be one of our favorites. Despite the humongous amount of dysfunctionality the clan has displayed over the past decade, the show has had us convinced that family is what matters the most when everything comes crashing down. 

Claire (Julie Bowen), Phil (Ty Burrell) and their children may have had their differences, but when they have always been there for one another. For instance, in the previous episode ‘The Last Christmas’, when Gloria (Sofia Vargara) accuses Luke of betraying Manny, which we all know is what he precisely did, Claire and Phil defend their son despite his unacceptable behavior. 

Although it raises questions about their style of parenting, the love they share for their offspring is overwhelming. Claire was judged and slammed by Gloria for something her son did, but as a mother, she took the fall only to protect her child. 

Similarly, when Mr and Mrs Dunphy learn about Haley’s unplanned pregnancy, they respect her choice and offer help, despite being aware of the consequences. 

Claire and Phil may have not paid much heed to academics growing up, but that hasn’t stopped them from encouraging Alex (Ariel Winter) to pursue her dreams, even if it involved living in an ice-stricken region on the other side of the world. 

It definitely wasn’t easy for the couple to bid goodbye to their children each time they decided to walk their own paths. However, they hoped they will return home one day and everything would be just the same. 

But, when the entire family comes together to celebrate the holiday for the last time, Phil and Claire are taken aback upon learning about their children’s plan to go away for individual reasons. They are suddenly struck by the thought of becoming empty nesters soon. 

The Dunphy family recently expanded when Haley (Sarah Hyland) had her twins. The house was more crowded than ever, but they got used to all the chaos with time. 

But, if Haley and Alex move out, and Luke decides to involve himself entirely in his new business plan, where is it going to leave Claire and Dunphy?