Ep 2. The Long Goodbye

The episode titled “The Long Goodbye” is the second episode of season 9 of the popular sitcom, Modern Family. The episode opens with Jay and Gloria realizing that Joe is growing up fast, and they are going to miss his childhood if they don’t start enjoying it more. To make up for lost time, Jay promises to take Joe on a camping trip.

Meanwhile, Mitchell is trying to help his father, Jay, deal with the fact that his ex-wife DeDe has passed away. However, Jay’s already complicated emotions are further strained when he learns that DeDe’s last wish was for her ashes to be spread in the place where they got married – on Jay’s ranch. This sparks a series of interactions between the characters as they all try to find closure and acceptance in their own ways.

Claire, on the other hand, is dealing with her own emotional baggage. She and Phil have been fighting over her recent promotion to CEO of Pritchett’s Closets & Blinds. Claire has been preoccupied with work, leaving Phil to take care of the household duties. This issue comes to a head when Phil hurts his back, and Claire realizes that she needs to be more present at home.

The underlying themes of the episode are about letting go of the past and embracing the present. This is exemplified in the interactions between Jay and Mitchell as they struggle to find a way to say goodbye to DeDe. It is also shown in Claire’s realization that she needs to prioritize her family over her career.

Throughout the episode, the writers do an excellent job of combining humor with heart. The scene where Phil tries to use a robotic vacuum cleaner is both hilarious and endearing. Similarly, the tension-filled scene between Jay and DeDe’s old boyfriend, Jerry, is both funny and touching.

This episode is a strong continuation of the show’s tradition of blending comedy and drama in a way that feels authentic and nuanced. It’s a testament to the strength of the writing and the performances that Modern Family continues to be a standout in the genre.

In summary, “The Long Goodbye” is an emotionally resonant episode that deals with themes of loss, acceptance, and family. It’s a reminder that even in the face of difficult times, love and a sense of humor can help us all find our way forward.