‘Modern Family’ Season 11 Episode 11: Here’s why ABC sitcom decided to bid goodbye to Frank Dunphy
‘Modern Family’ introduced a highly unexpected twist in the latest episode by writing off one of its most loved characters, Frank Dunphy. Episode 11 ‘Legacy’, taking a backseat from what was being called a ‘predictable plotline’, surprised the viewers with a bittersweet moment by bidding goodbye to Fred Willard’s character, who entertained us with his goofiness over the 11 seasons.
In the previous episode, Phil travels to Florida to check on his father, on learning that he was wandering around the grocery store. They spend an entire day indulging in their usual adventures, sharing some wholesome father and son moments. However, towards the end of the episode when Frank’s death was revealed, we learn that it was Phil’s last day with his father. It gets further emotional when Phil delivers a heart-wrenching eulogy to Frank at the memorial service, followed by an off-beat tribute, which became the re-defining moment for Season 11.
Calling it one of the “toughest decisions”, co-creator of ‘Modern Family’ Christopher Lloyd told Entertainment Weekly that they are “looking to find more meaningful topics to deal with” in the final season. He also stated that Frank’s death served as a chance to add some dimension to Phil’s persona, as it helped the viewers look at Phil for who he truly is.
Explaining as to how the final goodbye between Phil and Frank became a bittersweet moment, Lloyd stated, “it was one of the last conversations they had, but it also might’ve been the truest moment that those two characters ever had together.”
‘Legacy’ of ‘Modern Family’ Season 11 was packed with life-lessons. We couldn’t have imagined a better twist in the series’ finale season than what we were offered. However, going by Lloyd’s statement, we could expect several more surprises as they are trying to achieve fair endings for all the characters.
However, it seems like similar tragedies can befall any member of the Dunphy-Pritchett-Tucker family, as Lloyd says “No one is safe!”
Episode 12 of ‘Modern Family’ Season 11 will air on January 22 on ABC.
