Episode Report: Modern Family – "Come Fly with Me" (2009) is the third episode of the first season of the ABC sitcom Modern Family , originally airing on October 7, 2009. Directed by Reginald Hudlin and written by Dan O’Shannon, the episode is widely cited by critics as the point where the series "settled down" and began effectively mining humor from its unique premise of a complex, blended family. Plot Overview
The episode follows three distinct storylines that explore the friction and eventual bonding within the extended Pritchett-Dunphy clan:
Gloria takes Alex Dunphy dress shopping for a wedding. Alex, resistant to wearing a dress because she doesn't want to look like her sister Haley, finds a surprising confidante in Gloria. Meanwhile, Manny Delgado spends the day at the Dunphy house, where he acts as a sophisticated therapist for a stressed-out Claire. Key Character Dynamics & Themes "Modern Family" Come Fly with Me(2009)
8.3/10 – Praised as "proof that this is a series with great potential"
The episode was highly successful, viewed by approximately during its initial broadcast. Nielsen Rating 3.4/9 in the 18-49 demographic IGN Review Episode Report: Modern Family – "Come Fly with
Phil famously describes his relationship with Jay using a "primal" metaphor, comparing Jay to an old silverback gorilla protecting his territory and Phil to a younger gorilla "swinging in".
A− – Noted the series' ability to derive humor from its unique premise without being "preachy" Alex, resistant to wearing a dress because she
Mitchell Pritchett and Cameron Tucker go shopping for diapers. While Mitchell initially acts like a "snob," looking down on the big-box retailer, he quickly becomes obsessed with the wholesale deals, leading the pair to fill multiple carts with items they don't need, including a "diaper shed".