Associated Press -- The group crying started after the final scene of the last episode of ABC's "Modern Family" was taped.
Cast members say their 11 seasons on the comedy represented a peak creative experience and led to close friendships. They also came away with a few set souvenirs, with Claire Bowen choosing a painting as a sentimental favorite.
For Ariel Winter, it's her friendship with Nolan Gould that she treasures. The hourlong finale airs at 9 p.m. EDT Wednesday, preceded at 8 p.m. by the retrospective special, "A Modern Farewell."
The series' creators say they tried for a balance between laughs and "an emotional hug," in the finale, and a brief escape from dark times
