Home/Entertainment/“I’m too neurotic”: It’s Almost Surreal How Good Ty Burrell Played Phil Dunphy in ‘Modern Family’ That Often Gets Overlooked by Many
“I’m too neurotic”: It’s Almost Surreal How Good Ty Burrell Played Phil Dunphy in ‘Modern Family’ That Often Gets Overlooked by Many
Phil Dunphy is one character from Modern Family who has left an indelible mark on television sitcoms. Played by Ty Burrell, Phil is what you would describe as a well-meaning, goofy, and endearing father.
Ty Burrell in Modern Family | 20th Century Fox Television
We love his endless attempts at being the “cool” dad, and his hilarious misunderstandings that elevate the show. But behind this effortless portrayal is an actor whose performance is so brilliant that he often goes underappreciated.
Ty Burrell on playing Phil Dunphy in Modern Family
Ty Burrell in Modern Family | 20th Century Fox Television
Ty Burrell playing Phil Dunphy seems so authentic and natural that viewers can actually see the two personas as one. It didn’t feel like Burrell was playing Phil, but that he actually was Phil!
And even though this is the highest compliment for an actor, it doesn’t acknowledge his skill. In an interview with The Guardian, he spoke about the character and revealed:
People always want to know if I’m like Phil [Dunphy, his character in Modern Family]. The truth is I’m too neurotic. I have too many bees buzzing in my brain. Being in Phil’s head is like taking a trip to the spa. But I do share his obliviousness. The other morning, when it was very dark, my wife whispered from the bed: “Have a good day.” I leaned over and kissed the lamp.
Modern Family viewers know that Phil is anything but neurotic, unlike Burrell, he doesn’t give much thought to things, and that’s what makes him lovable. So that’s precisely why Burrell is overlooked as an artist because despite having the opposite temperament of his character, he tapped into that headspace like it was his own.
Ty Burrell’s journey to success and memorable moments
Ty Burrell in Modern Family | 20th Century Fox Television
Ty Burrell wasn’t an overnight sensation, his journey was full of challenges, and he often got roles where the character didn’t last much in the story. However, he still expressed his gratitude for achieving success later in life and explained why he felt that it was the best possible outcome for him.
I was not a mature young man and would probably have gone off the rails. Plus, I don’t know if it was my Frankenbrow, but before Modern Family I was always cast as the guy who got his comeuppance – and was usually killed or fired. It’s nice to play someone well-intentioned now.
Burrell’s longtime struggle probably made him value and cherish the opportunity more than anything, which made Phil Dunphy’s journey in Modern Family full of memorable moments. His portrayal is a masterclass in comedic acting, and how an artist can pull off being unintentionally funny while fully intending it.
You can watch Modern Family on Hulu.
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