It’s in the very early stages, but there are reports that ABC is in talks with 20th Century Fox TV about developing a spin-off of the network’s flagship comedy, Modern Family.
According to Deadline, which first reported the news, one of the potential spin-off ideas being tossed around centers on the character played by comedian Rob Riggle during two episodes last season. He played Gil Thorpe, the most successful real estate agent in the Los Angeles area and Phil Dunphy’s (Ty Burrell) main rival. Thorphe, who is known for using his name to come up with catchphrases, also employed Phil’s wife Claire (Julie Bowen) for a short time.
Both Deadline and The Hollywood Reporter note that the Riggle idea is just one of the ideas that came up during ABC’s meeting with 20th Century Fox TV, the show’s producers. There are no deals in place and nothing is confirmed. Both parties would not comment on the reports.
If the spin-off happens, the Modern Family team would definitely be involved in the project. Co-creator/co-showrunner Steve Levitan and executive producers Paul Corrigan and Brad Walsh would write and produce, while co-creator/co-showrunner Chris Lloyd will remain focused on the main Modern Family series.
Modern Family is among the most popular comedies on TV right now and won its fourth-straight Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series.
image: ABC