In the hit sitcom Modern Family, Jay Pritchett is known for his typical tough and patriarchal attributes, brought up with the values of family and masculinity. However, fans were in for a pleasant surprise as they saw his character arc undergo a complete shift from being someone with traditional values to a person with soft vulnerability with more acceptable traits.
It’s actually his marriage to Gloria Pritchett, that transforms him into a more empathetic and emotionally open father. While Gloria’s character had often been the subject of criticism, her influence on Jay’s development can not be understated. In fact, it’s Gloria who helps Jay become a better father, even surpassing Phil Dunphy in terms of emotional depth.
Jay Pritchett became a great father because of his marriage with Gloria in Modern Family Stranger
At the beginning of the series Modern Family, Jay, portrayed by Ed O’Neill, is a tough, emotionally distant man who struggles to connect with his children. His relationship with his son Mitchell, is strained by his initial discomfort with Mitch’s sexuality.
Then Gloria (Sofia Vergara) enters his life, a vibrant and passionate woman who not only challenges Jay’s traditional views but exposes him to new experiences, culture, and, most importantly, a second chance in parenthood.
While Gloria’s character faced a fair amount of criticism for being a stereotype, her role in Jay’s development often gets overlooked. Her influence helps Jay become a better father, arguably a better father than Phil Dunphy. Despite his initial doubts, Jay develops a profound and loving connection with his stepson, Manny, becoming the father he never had.
He sets aside his reservations and embraces Manny’s unique personality. On the other hand, Joe gave him a new experience in fatherhood where he realizes his past mistakes in parenthood. Jay also strengthens his relationship with his adult children through real efforts. His transformation is more evident in accepting Mitchell and his partner Cameron.
Jay’s marriage to Gloria becomes a catalyst for his transformation. Coming out of a toxic and unpredictable marriage with his ex-wife, DeDe, Jay gives love a second chance and is pushed out of his comfort zone by Gloria. He is exposed to various cultures and traditions through shared experiences, immersing himself in her Colombian heritage.
While Phil Dunphy is often seen as the ideal father, his bond with his children is built on shared interests. If his kids didn’t share those passions, one has to wonder if the relationship would be as strong. Jay, on the other hand, loves his children unconditionally, even if they don’t mirror his personality or interests. His emotional growth makes him a more well-rounded, empathetic parent.
Modern Family fans also reacted to this unpopular opinion of Jay’s transformation to be a great father
Fans on Reddit have been quick to point out Jay’s significant transformation, largely credited to Gloria’s influence. One user noted how Jay’s character evolves from a rough figure in season one to a more accepting and emotionally available father by season three.
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Another fan acknowledged that Gloria helped him develop into a better partner and father, recognizing the growth compared to his earlier, more traditional parenting style. Some even argue that Jay, despite his tough exterior, became more relatable and accepting, making him just as good a father as Phil in the later seasons.
Ultimately, it’s Gloria’s influence that helps Jay become a better father—accepting, adaptable, and emotionally connected. Their bond isn’t just a romantic relationship; it’s a partnership that allowed Jay to evolve into a more accepting man, making him, in many ways, a better father
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire
