: The storyline involving Claire joining Facebook and being "untagged" by her daughters for a 1990 spring break photo was praised for its relatability to modern families.
: 8/10 — Praised Bobby Cannavale’s comedic turn as Lewis the Clown. IMDb : 7.4/10 based on over 2,800 user ratings. Send Out the ClownsModern Family : Season 3 Epi...
" Send Out the Clowns " (Season 3, Episode 18) of Modern Family received generally positive reviews , often cited as a standout for its guest performances and "broad" physical humor. Critics praised it for successfully balancing four distinct storylines with high-energy comedy. : The storyline involving Claire joining Facebook and
: Critics widely acclaimed Bobby Cannavale for his "lewd and hysterical" portrayal of Cam’s estranged partner, Lewis. Ellen Barkin was also a favorite as Phil’s cutthroat real estate rival, Mitzi Roff. " Send Out the Clowns " (Season 3,
: The subplot where Luke helps Phil land a listing by faking tears—triggered by the fact that "The Three Stooges are all dead"—was frequently highlighted as a brilliant moment of writing.
: B− — While acknowledging the show's smart timing, the reviewer found the "clown humor" perfunctory and less funny than other tropes. Episode Highlights & Reception
: Reviews from Vulture and TV Guide noted the episode’s unabashed use of "spit takes," "pratfalls," and an actual clown car, comparing the clown funeral scene to the classic Mary Tyler Moore Show episode "Chuckles Bites the Dust".