“Modern Family” includes eclectic bunch

I have an addiction.

Usually, I would not spend my Wednesday evenings delved in a television show. However, I have to say, "Modern Family" has changed my ways.

I have never before watched a sitcom regularly.

Then, in September 2009, the pilot of "Modern Family "aired on ABC. It was at that time I got caught up in the lives of the Pritchett family.

This show, created by Christopher Lloyd and Stephen Levitan, is filmed in the style of a mock documentary.

As the story goes, Lloyd and Levitan were working together and started sharing stories of their own family's mishaps. Those stories soon developed into a TV show idea produced by Fox Television Studios.

Each episode revolves around three main families that are interconnected with Jay Pritchett and his two children. What is unique about this show is that most of the episodes do not seem to follow a chronological time line.

The show follows the three families as they deal with daily trials and tribulations common to a majority of typical families.

The difference between them and most families, however, is the fact that they always seem to run into more antics, adventures and mishaps than one would think possible.

In other words, they fit the stereotype of many families in today's society. They go through each day and while they may find roadblocks they have to overcome, they get through it and come out loving one another and having learned a lesson.

The characters seem to truly know the meaning of family. The Pritchett clan may not be perfect but they are there to support one another and will love each other unconditionally no matter what the circumstance.

Even though this sitcom does not star any big name celebrities, the comedy has taken off since its premier. It went on to accept three awards in the 62nd Primetime Emmy Awards.

In the last year since the start of the show, viewer ratings have increased tremendously. "Modern Family" had approximately three million more viewers watching the new season premier in September 2010 than when the 2009 season finale aired in May 2010.

"Modern Family" frequently has guest stars throughout the season as well. Some recognized names of celebrities who have made an appearance on set include Judy Greer, Kobe Bryant, Minnie Driver and a variety of others.

Though each episode has a different story line, I have found that the entertainment factor is always consistent.

Throughout the show, you will laugh and maybe even relate to some of the wacky mishaps the family gets themselves into as well as how they deal with the situation at hand.

This sitcom is no doubt well produced and acted. The fact that no single character is like another makes for a wild ride of unending plots in the future. As the tag line for the show says the "Modern Family" is "One big (gay, straight, multicultural, traditional) happy family."

Although this show is fairly new, I think it is safe to say it will not be slowing down any and it will continue to reign on the comedy throne.

"Modern Family" airs 8 p.m. Central, Wednesdays on ABC.