Modern Family star Jesse Tyler Ferguson reveals how his dad’s blunt question changed their relationship.
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Dad’s Unexpected Question
Jesse Tyler Ferguson remembers the moment his dad asked him why he played “so many gay parts.”
This wasn’t just small talk—it sparked a whole new level in their relationship!
The Modern Family star opened up about this convo on his podcast “Dinner’s On Me” this week.
His dad’s innocent question actually led to a meaningful chat about representation and why playing Mitchell meant so much to him.
More Than Just a Funny Role
Ferguson was already 33 when Modern Family hit ABC in 2009. His character Mitchell Pritchett wasn’t just any role—it was groundbreaking!
The show didn’t just crack people up; it showed a loving gay couple years before same-sex marriage became legal nationwide.
Ferguson knew this visibility mattered big time for the marriage equality movement, something his dad didn’t initially get.
“Dad, I’m Gay… Again!”
Coming out once wasn’t enough for Ferguson’s family! He told Oprah back in 2013 that he had to come out THREE separate times to his parents—at 17, 19, and 21.
The last time, his dad actually asked if he had a girlfriend! Ferguson was like, “Dad! I’m gay.
Do we really have to go back to this every time?” His father had to totally rewire his expectations about his son’s life.
The Public vs. Private Balancing Act
On his podcast with guest Luke Macfarlane, Ferguson dished about the weird push-pull of being famous.
His dad still doesn’t get why he shares personal stories on talk shows. “Why did you have to share that?” his dad asks.
Ferguson’s response? “Because it’s a charming story about my life!”
Finding that sweet spot between public and private is super tricky, especially when your job basically requires spilling your guts.
Life After Mitchell
Since wrapping Modern Family, Ferguson hasn’t slowed down one bit!
Married to Justin Mikita since 2013, he’s jumped into wild projects like the bonkers movie Cocaine Bear and TV shows Elsbeth and Mid-Century Modern.
The conversation his dad started years ago clearly helped shape not just their relationship but Ferguson’s approach to choosing meaningful roles that reflect his authentic self.