**Jesse Tyler Ferguson Reflects on Iconic Quotes and Exciting New Roles at Broadway Premiere**
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On March 23, the spotlight shone bright on Jesse Tyler Ferguson during the highly anticipated New York City premiere of “Giant” on Broadway. The actor, best known for his role as Mitchell Pritchett in the hit series “Modern Family,” took a moment to speak exclusively with PEOPLE, sharing insights about both his enduring popularity and current projects.
Ferguson, aged 50, noted the phrases from “Modern Family” that fans frequently quote when they encounter him in public. “Shame,” he said, referencing a catchphrase of his character, is often shouted back at him. He added, “People are always saying ‘shame’ to my face,” a testament to the show’s lasting impact on its audience.
Additionally, Ferguson mentioned another line that frequently resonates with fans: “Where’s Lily?” This nods to the running gag throughout the series where he and his onscreen husband, Cam Tucker, played by Eric Stonestreet, would often misplace their young daughter, Lily. Such interactions highlight the affection fans maintain for the beloved sitcom, which aired from 2009 to 2020 on ABC.
When discussing his personal life, Ferguson opened up about how date nights with his husband, actor and producer Justin Mikita, have evolved amid their busy schedules. “Right now, they look very far and few in between,” he revealed. With both partners immersed in various projects, their outings often boil down to simple dinners.
Ferguson is currently embracing a new challenge as he stars in the play “TRU,” where he portrays the renowned author Truman Capote. He described the production as an “immersive” experience, with audiences limited to just 99 attendees each night in an intimate setting—a stark contrast to his previous performances, such as in Shakespeare in the Park, where he performed before considerably larger crowds.
“This intrigues me,” he explained, further noting that taking on the complexities of Capote’s character presents its own challenges. “To do something for 99 people a night just feels so different and so scary,” Ferguson admitted, expressing his desire to seek out roles that evoke a sense of fear and challenge, something he finds rewarding.
The actor’s openness about his artistic journey underscored his belief in the value of confronting fears. “I’ve done things that have really scared me, and they always pay off in dividends,” he said. Clearly, the prospect of tackling Capote—and in such an intimate setting—aligns perfectly with Ferguson’s goal of pushing his artistic boundaries.
Beyond the stage, Ferguson is also busy with his podcast, “Dinner’s on Me with Jesse Tyler Ferguson,” where he invites various guests to share a meal while engaging in conversation. “Brooke Shields is coming on this week, and I’m so excited to sit down and talk with her,” he exclaimed, revealing his efforts to secure prominent figures for the show. He also mentioned upcoming episodes featuring fashion designer Michael Kors, and actors Darren Criss, Jenna Fischer, and Shoshana Bean.
“Getting great people on the show makes me feel very lucky,” Ferguson said, reflecting on his successful podcasting journey. This venture not only allows him to connect with guests but also gives him the opportunity to explore different dining experiences in New York City and Los Angeles.
As “Giant” opens its doors on Broadway, fans are reminded of Ferguson’s remarkable range as an actor and host. From his comedic roots in “Modern Family” to his current theatrical pursuits and engaging podcast, Ferguson continues to build upon an illustrious career that resonates with audiences far and wide. His authentic reflections on fame, personal life, and the art of storytelling illustrate not just the complexities of his craft but also the joys that come with facing life’s unpredictable challenges.