Edward Norton Cameo in Modern Family You Totally Forgot About
Back in 2009, when ABC's Modern Family first aired, the show quickly became a hit for its hilarious storylines and lovable characters.
But many fans may have forgotten some of the truly great guest stars that were featured throughout the series.
One such cameo during the show's first season included a certain Hollywood heavyweight. Respected actor Edward Norton surprised audiences when he appeared as Izzy LaFontaine, the fictional bass player of the one-hit-wonder band Spandau Ballet.
In the episode, Norton's character is a surprise anniversary gift for Phil and his wife, Claire. However, the gift goes awry when Claire realizes that Phil has no idea who Spandau Ballet is or what their biggest hit, 'True,' sounds like.
To make matters worse, Norton's character is supposed to play the song for the couple, but performs so comically poorly, it only adds to the awkwardness of the situation. Despite being one of the series' most cringe-inducing scenes, Norton's appearance on the show was a hit with many fans, who loved seeing the usually serious actor in a new comedic light.
Norton's cameo was not only unexpected but also quite nostalgic for many.
His character sported a respectable British accent as well as donning typical 80s attire, including a classic leather jacket and aviator sunglasses, which added to the throwback vibe of the episode. Plus, hearing True played on the show was a great reminder of how the song has become a classic in its own right, appearing in various movies and TV shows over the years.
So how did Norton, a three-time Academy Award nominee, end up as a cameo on a new sitcom? It turns out he did it as a favor to his old friend Ty Burrell (aka Phil Dunphy).
During a previous interview with SiriusXM, Norton shared how he met and worked with Burrell in a play several years previously. Burrell then contacted him, asking if he was interested in being part of the 80s-themed sketch.
“When he called me up and said, 'Hey, there's this funny thing, you know, this Spandau Ballet bass player I do, would you come in and do it?' I couldn't, I couldn't say no, it was too funny,” Norton recalled.
While Norton's guest appearance may have been forgotten by some fans over the years, it's definitely one of the best in a series with no shortage of great cameos. Seeing serious actors step out of their comfort zones and try something new is always fun, and Norton's appearance on Modern Family was a perfect example of that.
Who knows, maybe we'll see him in a comedic role again in the future.
Source: SiriusXM.