“Modern Family” is one of the most beloved sitcoms of the 21st century, known for its ensemble cast, witty writing, and heartwarming moments. The show, which aired from 2009 to 2020, followed the lives of the Pritchett-Dunphy-Tucker family, a large and diverse family that included three distinct households. Over its 11-season run, “Modern Family” featured a plethora of guest stars, each bringing their unique flair to the show. One such guest star was Will Sasso, a versatile actor and comedian known for his work on “MADtv” and various film and television roles. In this article, we will delve into who Will Sasso played in “Modern Family,” his character’s impact on the show, and how his performance added to the series’ rich tapestry.
Who Is Will Sasso?
Before diving into his role in “Modern Family,” it’s essential to understand who Will Sasso is. Born on May 24, 1975, in Ladner, British Columbia, Canada, Will Sasso is a comedian, actor, and impressionist. He gained widespread recognition for his work on the sketch comedy show “MADtv,” where he was a cast member from 1997 to 2002. Sasso is known for his impeccable comedic timing, physical comedy, and ability to impersonate a wide range of celebrities, including Kenny Rogers, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Curly Howard of The Three Stooges.
In addition to his work on “MADtv,” Sasso has appeared in numerous films and television shows. Some of his notable film credits include “The Three Stooges” (2012), where he played Curly Howard, and “Employee of the Month” (2006). On television, he has had recurring roles on shows like “Less Than Perfect” and “Mom.” Sasso’s versatility as an actor and comedian has made him a sought-after talent in the entertainment industry.
Will Sasso’s Role in “Modern Family”
The Character: Gus
Will Sasso appeared in “Modern Family” during the show’s fifth season, specifically in Episode 14, titled “iSpy.” In this episode, Sasso played the character Gus, a handyman hired by Phil Dunphy (played by Ty Burrell) to help with various household repairs. Gus is a larger-than-life character with a boisterous personality and a penchant for getting into trouble. His interactions with Phil and the rest of the Dunphy family provide some of the episode’s most memorable moments.
The Episode: “iSpy”
The episode “iSpy” revolves around Phil’s attempts to fix various household issues, including a broken garage door and a malfunctioning toilet. Phil, who fancies himself a handyman, quickly realizes that he is out of his depth and decides to hire Gus to help him. However, Gus’s unconventional methods and lack of professionalism lead to a series of comedic mishaps.
One of the episode’s standout scenes involves Gus attempting to fix the garage door. Instead of using traditional tools, Gus uses a sledgehammer, causing more damage than he fixes. This scene showcases Sasso’s physical comedy skills, as he hams it up with exaggerated movements and facial expressions. The interaction between Gus and Phil is a highlight of the episode, with Ty Burrell’s deadpan reactions perfectly complementing Sasso’s over-the-top performance.
Gus’s Impact on the Dunphy Family
While Gus is only in one episode of “Modern Family,” his presence has a lasting impact on the Dunphy family. His antics serve as a catalyst for several subplots in the episode, including Claire’s (Julie Bowen) frustration with Phil’s inability to handle household repairs and Haley’s (Sarah Hyland) attempts to hide her relationship with a much older man from her parents.
Gus’s character also provides a contrast to Phil’s more reserved and methodical approach to problem-solving. While Phil tries to approach each task with a sense of logic and order, Gus is all about brute force and improvisation. This dynamic creates a comedic tension that drives much of the episode’s humor.
Will Sasso’s Performance
Comedic Timing
One of the standout aspects of Will Sasso’s performance as Gus is his impeccable comedic timing. Sasso has a natural ability to deliver lines with just the right amount of emphasis and pause, making even the simplest of jokes land with maximum impact. In “iSpy,” Sasso’s timing is on full display, particularly in scenes where Gus is trying to explain his unconventional methods to Phil.
For example, in one scene, Gus tells Phil that he doesn’t need a level to install a shelf because he can “eyeball it.” Sasso delivers this line with such confidence and nonchalance that it becomes instantly hilarious. His ability to make even the most absurd statements seem believable is a testament to his skill as a comedian.
Physical Comedy
In addition to his comedic timing, Sasso’s physical comedy is another highlight of his performance as Gus. Throughout the episode, Sasso uses his body to great effect, whether he’s swinging a sledgehammer, climbing a ladder, or trying to squeeze into a tight space. His exaggerated movements and facial expressions add an extra layer of humor to the character, making Gus a memorable and entertaining presence.
One particularly memorable moment involves Gus trying to fix the toilet. Sasso’s physicality in this scene is nothing short of brilliant, as he contorts his body in various ways to try and reach the problem. The scene culminates in Gus accidentally flooding the bathroom, leading to a series of slapstick moments that are pure comedy gold.
Chemistry with the Cast
Another reason why Will Sasso’s performance as Gus is so effective is his chemistry with the rest of the “Modern Family” cast, particularly Ty Burrell. The two actors play off each other beautifully, with Burrell’s straight-laced Phil serving as the perfect foil to Sasso’s wild and unpredictable Gus. Their interactions are filled with comedic tension, as Phil tries to maintain some semblance of control while Gus continually undermines his efforts.
Sasso also has great chemistry with Julie Bowen, who plays Claire Dunphy. In one scene, Claire confronts Gus about his shoddy workmanship, leading to a hilarious exchange where Gus tries to justify his methods. Bowen’s exasperated reactions to Sasso’s antics add to the scene’s humor, making it one of the episode’s standout moments.
The Legacy of Gus in “Modern Family”
While Gus is only in one episode of “Modern Family,” his character has left a lasting impression on fans of the show. Sasso’s performance as Gus is a masterclass in comedic acting, showcasing his ability to bring a larger-than-life character to life with both humor and heart. The episode “iSpy” remains a fan favorite, thanks in large part to Sasso’s memorable turn as Gus.
Gus’s impact on the Dunphy family is also significant, as his antics serve as a catalyst for several key moments in the episode. From Phil’s realization that he needs to step up as a handyman to Claire’s frustration with her husband’s incompetence, Gus’s presence drives much of the episode’s plot and humor.
Conclusion
Will Sasso’s portrayal of Gus in “Modern Family” is a shining example of how a guest star can make a lasting impact on a beloved TV show. With his impeccable comedic timing, physical comedy skills, and chemistry with the cast, Sasso brought the character of Gus to life in a way that was both hilarious and memorable. While Gus may have only appeared in one episode, his legacy lives on as one of the most entertaining and unforgettable guest characters in “Modern Family” history.
In the grand tapestry of “Modern Family,” Will Sasso’s Gus is a vibrant thread that adds color, humor, and a touch of chaos to the Dunphy household. His performance is a testament to Sasso’s talent as a comedian and actor, and it serves as a reminder of why “Modern Family” remains one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the show or a newcomer, Gus’s antics in “iSpy” are sure to leave you laughing and wanting more.
