‘Modern Family’ Star Aubrey Anderson-Emmons Comes Out as Bisexual in Iconic Pride Month Post

Aubrey Anderson-Emmons, the beloved actor who grew up on television as Lily Tucker-Pritchett in ABC’s groundbreaking sitcom ‘Modern Family,’ has come out as bisexual. Anderson-Emmons, now 18, shared her identity with the world by referencing one of the show’s most memorable moments, in a move that has been widely praised for its authenticity, humor, and impeccable timing during Pride Month.

On June 17, Anderson-Emmons posted a video to Instagram and Threads, lip-syncing to a classic ‘Modern Family’ scene. In this now iconic moment, her character Lily responds to Gloria Delgado-Pritchett (played by Sofia Vergara), who says, “You are Vietnamese,” with the quip, “No, I’m not, I’m gay, I’m gay!” The audio, featuring Jesse Tyler Ferguson as her on-screen father Mitchell, famously follows with, “Honey, no, you’re not gay. You are just confused!”

Overlaying the video, Anderson-Emmons wrote, “People keep joking so much abt me being gay when I literally am (I’m bi),” adding further clarity to her announcement. In her caption, she wrote, “happy pride month to all and to all a goodnight hehehe,” including the hashtag #bi along with others celebrating her identity.

The creative and lighthearted nature of Anderson-Emmons’ post quickly drew an outpouring of support across social media platforms. Fans and members of the LGBTQ+ community praised her for her courage and the joyful way she chose to share her bisexuality. Comments ranged from “Queen!”—as posted by social media figure Trisha Paytas—to heartfelt notes celebrating how her on-screen dads, Cam and Mitchell (portrayed by Eric Stonestreet and Jesse Tyler Ferguson), would be proud.

The timing of Anderson-Emmons’ announcement—during Pride Month—added to the sense of celebration. Many fans noted the significance of her coming out while LGBTQ+ people and allies globally acknowledge and honor diverse identities, histories, and experiences.

Anderson-Emmons’ journey is especially resonant for queer audiences who grew up watching her on ‘Modern Family.’ The sitcom, which aired from 2009 to 2020, was lauded for its representation of LGBTQ+ families, with the characters of Mitchell and Cam breaking ground as one of television’s most visible and beloved gay couples. Anderson-Emmons’ own coming out adds another layer to the legacy of the show, highlighting the real-world impact that on-screen visibility can have on the lives of both actors and viewers.

Her announcement also underscores the importance of bisexual visibility. In mainstream media, bisexual identities are often erased or misunderstood. Anderson-Emmons’ candid declaration, coupled with her playful reference to her television roots, serves as a reminder that every way of coming out is valid—and that joy, humor, and self-acceptance are worth celebrating.

As Anderson-Emmons steps into adulthood, her coming out is a testament to the ongoing evolution of LGBTQ+ representation in entertainment and society at large. For many young queer people, seeing someone they admired as a child affirm their own identity can be powerful and affirming.

With her announcement, Aubrey Anderson-Emmons joins a growing number of former child stars and public figures who are using their platforms to advocate for authenticity and acceptance. Her message—delivered with wit, pride, and a nod to her past—will undoubtedly inspire conversations about identity, family, and the importance of celebrating every facet of the LGBTQ+ community during Pride and beyond.