MODERN FAMILY Spinoff Might Spotlight Gil Thorpe
ABC is in the early stages of developing a MODERN FAMILY spinoff that could star Gil Thorpe. The character, introduced in season four as Phil Dunphy’s real estate rival who stops at nothing to win, is seen as obnoxious yet incredibly funny. His blend of swagger and wit has sparked curiosity about a standalone series that could lean into the comedy and competitive energy he brings to the table. Industry chatter in entertainment circles suggests the project is being explored with Gil as the centerpiece, aiming to capture the same bite and warmth that fans loved in the original.
If the project advances, Rob Riggle would reprise his role as Gil Thorpe’s foil, and the show would be written by MODERN FAMILY veterans Paul Corrigan and Brad Walsh. Steve Levitan, the co-creator of the original series, would also contribute input to help maintain the spirit and tone that defined the family-centered world. These names align the spinoff with the established sensibility of the parent show while allowing space for Gil to claim a new stage.
A potential spinoff could explore Gil in a fresh setting, focusing on his real estate exploits, personal life, and evolving relationships, all while preserving the sharp humor and social observations that defined MODERN FAMILY. The format might shift to a more concentrated ensemble or a tighter ensemble around Gil, but the storytelling would remain anchored in character-driven humor, workplace dynamics, and the quirks of everyday life that audiences associate with the original series.
The move would be strategically positioned to reach audiences across the United States and Canada, leveraging the parent show’s built-in fan base while inviting new viewers to discover the world through Gil’s point of view. Production considerations would include ensuring a balance of tone, pacing, and setting that respects the legacy of MODERN FAMILY while offering something distinctly new for North American audiences. The goal would be to preserve the DNA of the original show—warmth, wit, and relatable moments—while expanding the universe to accommodate fresh stories and conflicts.
Fan and critic responses are mixed, reflecting the franchise’s history of strong affection for its characters and trepidation about spin-offs. Some viewers are eager for more of Gil Thorpe’s audacity and cunning, hoping the spinoff would deepen his character beyond the back-and-forth rivalries of the parent series. Others worry about relying too heavily on a single archetype and potentially narrowing the world that made the ensemble so beloved. Creators might mitigate these concerns by weaving in supporting characters who anchor the new setting, ensuring that Gil remains central without eclipsing a broader, welcoming community. The discussion around this possibility underscores the enduring appeal of MODERN FAMILY and its capacity to birth new, lively stories while staying true to its roots.
What do observers think about a MODERN FAMILY spinoff? The conversation itself signals the franchise’s ongoing resonance and its ability to spark conversations about how favorite characters evolve and how new adventures can fit into a familiar, beloved universe.