Benjamin Bratt is 'Modern' man

Actor to guest star on ABC's new comedy series

By Nellie Andreeva

Oct 13, 2009, 08:51 PM ET

Ed O'Neill will be facing some serious competition.

Benjamin Bratt has signed on to guest star on ABC's new comedy series "Modern Family," playing the ex of Sofia Vergara's character.

Jay Pritchett (O'Neill) and his much-younger Colombian wife, Gloria Delgado-Pritchett (Vergara), are raising Gloria's child from her previous marriage, Manny Delgado (Rico Rodriguez).

Mr. Delgado has been a prominent topic of conversation on the show, with his son idolizing him and his ex-wife often talking about his physical abilities. But the character has not been seen yet, despite coming close with a promise to pick Manny up for a dad-son weekend, which he didn't keep.

Speaking of exes, Bratt's casting comes on the heels of Shelley Long signing on to guest star as Jay's ex-wife, Dede Pritchett.

Bratt, who is set to appear in one episode for now, is coming off a two-season stint on A&E's drama "The Cleaner."

Benjamin Bratt is 'Modern' man

Actor to guest star on ABC's new comedy series

By Nellie Andreeva

Oct 13, 2009, 08:51 PM ET