'Modern Family' season 8 news, spoilers: Nathan Fillion joins cast

(Facebook/ModernFamily)"Modern Family" season 8 premieres on Sept. 21 on ABC.

"Modern Family" season 8 is almost here, which can only mean one thing: more laughter. When the hit ABC family comedy returns, fans can expect a Halloween episode wherein Jay dresses up as Jesus.

"Modern Family" has had stand-out Halloween episodes in the past, so it remains to be seen if this entry will be prove to be a top pick. However, Jay dressing up in costume as Jesus is definitely an interesting plot point since it is such a controversial move. But Jay won't be the only one. Gloria and Joe will be dragged into his mess, too. Little Joe is growing up fast, but that doesn't mean that he won't look absolutely adorable in costume.

"Jay's big costume idea is him, Gloria and Joe are going to be Jesus, Mary and Joseph, and that leads to some problems," executive producer Steve Levitan told Entertainment Weekly in a Spoiler Room issue. "Jay is going to be Jesus on Halloween."

In other news, a new character will be making recurring appearances in the upcoming season. Levitan revealed at the Television Critics Association Press Tour that Nathan Fillion has been cast as a local weatherman cleverly named Rainor Shine. The character will find himself tangled within the Dunphy family.

Fillion is not a new face on television. He is popularly known for his work on "Castle," another ABC show, wherein he played the titular role of Richard Castle. Fillion also appeared in the short-lived series "Firefly." Among other shows on his long list of credits are guest starring roles in "Community" and "Gravity Falls." 

Fans are excited for "Modern Family" season 8, especially after the events of the season 7 finale. Haley (Sarah Hyland) and Andy (Adam DeVine) ended their relationship so that the latter could go after his dream career. The Haley/Andy pairing has certainly been a highlight of the past season and many hearts were broken when they separated. 

"Modern Family" season 8 premieres on Sept. 21 on ABC.

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