Why Modern Family’s mum has turned to the dark side

Normal text sizeLarger text sizeVery large text sizeJulie Bowen could have been wearing anything during our video call last month – a luxurious gown, a clown suit, KISS-inspired make-up – but the same thought would have crossed my mind regardless: “Wow, that’s Claire Dunphy from Modern Family!”It’s the blessing and curse that befalls many television celebrities, especially if, like Bowen, they played the same beloved role for over a decade.Modern Family launched Bowen into the spotlight after its premiere in 2009, transforming her into one of the most recognisable TV mums in history, joining the likes of Marge Simpson and Carol Brady. Over its 11 seasons, the show won 22 Emmys, including two for Bowen herself (she won the award for best supporting actress in a comedy series in 2011 and 2012).Julie Bowen, Emjay Anthony and Nolan North in Hysteria!Credit: Daniel Delgado/PEACOCKBut every show, even the great ones, must eventually come to an end, which leaves its cast in…