The Middle will cap off nine seasons tonight with a "satisfying" series finale

New York Post

“The finale really is a very satisfying ending for people who’ve loved the show for all these years. We’re not going to cut to black at the end like The Sopranos," says co-creator Eileen Heisler with a laugh. The Middle premiered one week after Modern Family in 2009, and has always stood in the shadow of its fellow ABC sitcom. “We were always riding their wind,” says Heisler. “Not being as splashy as Modern Family just became part of our narrative. We’re like the kid who is staying up late and the parents don’t know they’re up.” ALSO: Patricia Heaton: ABC wanted to continue The Middle, but we felt nine seasons was enough.