If you had to name one work that is essential when talking about American sitcoms, many people would definitely say Modern Family.

However, many Koreans only know about Modern Family if they are familiar with it; those who aren't have no idea about this masterpiece.

This isn't just a popular drama; it's a work that humorously shows how "American families have changed."">

It started in 2009 and ended in 2020, spanning an impressive 11 seasons. Nowadays, there are hardly any sitcoms that are loved for this long.

The basic setup revolves around three families centered around a single character, Jay Pritchett, and this structure is exquisite.

One is a typical American nuclear family, one is a remarried family with a significant age gap, and one is a gay couple.

Looking back now, you might think, "Well, that's just how it is," but in 2009, this was quite a groundbreaking setup.

Especially having a gay couple as main characters was almost experimental at that time.

The format is also unique. Instead of flowing like a regular drama, it has a mockumentary style similar to The Office.

What's great about this is that while the situations are the same, each character has different thoughts, which leads to laughter.

Particularly, characters like Phil Dunphy have some truly legendary moments during their solo interviews.

The setting is LA County. So, the houses look big and the lifestyle seems relaxed, but the content is anything but that.

Even though the family appears wealthy, their concerns are the same as anyone else's: kids not listening, marital disputes, and teenage angst.

It gives you the feeling of, "Oh, that family has those issues too?" This is why people not just in America but around the world can relate.

The creators of this show are Christopher Lloyd and Steven Levitan, who came up with the idea while discussing their own family stories, thinking, "This could make a great show."">

The original concept was a bit more outrageous, involving a foreign exchange student creating a love triangle, but they scrapped that and focused on a realistic family dynamic, which was a brilliant move.

And here's why this work is truly remarkable: it won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series for five consecutive years!

This means it was recognized within the industry. It captured ratings, critical acclaim, and a dedicated fanbase.

Let's talk a bit more about the characters. This show doesn't have the concept of a single "main character." Everyone is a main character.

Jay is a bit of a curmudgeon but cares for his family, Gloria is strong yet warm, and Phil is immature but dedicated as a father.

Claire is tough but looks after her family, and Mitchell and Cam have incredible chemistry. There isn't a single character you can dismiss.

This is why people often say, "There are no disliked characters in Modern Family."">

The story structure is well-crafted. Typically, an episode will follow the three families separately, connecting at the end, or sometimes they end completely separately.

However, there is always a common theme: family, love, relationships. The formula of being funny and then adding a touch of emotion at the end keeps it from getting stale.

And here's a subtly important point: this show isn't funny because it's outrageous. Nowadays, many comedies try to be funny with shocking setups.

But this show is just funny because the situations are relatable. They feel realistic but are slightly exaggerated. That's why it lasts longer.

The airing process is also quite interesting. Originally, FOX couldn't take it, CBS didn't fit the format, and NBC already had a similar style program.

In the end, ABC picked it up. Looking back, it was the best choice for ABC.

The initial response was immediate popularity after the first airing, leading to a quick decision for a season extension, and it continued until season 11.

Originally, they planned to end it after season 10, but due to fan demand and ratings, they made one more season, which is a well-known story.

In summary, this show can be described in one line:

"A sitcom that is both funny and uplifting."">

It's not forced emotion or laughter; it's just a natural progression that ends with, "Ah, this is what family is."">

Honestly, if you live in America and speak English but haven't seen it yet, it's a must-watch.