Edward Norton plays the fictional bass player and backing singer for Spandau Ballet, Izzy LaFontaine. The real bassist and singer for Spandau Ballet was Martin Kemp.
The ending includes a tribute to David Lloyd the father of series producer Christopher Lloyd, who passed away November 10, 2009, 8 days before the episode aired. It includes a picture of the elder Lloyd holding an Emmy he won for Chuckles Bites the Dust (1975), and the quote from that episode: "A little song, a little dance, a little seltzer down your pants."
First appearance Elizabeth Banks as Sal.
In season one, Jay says that he met Phil when he was hiding in his backyard trying to sneak Claire out of her house.
"Great Expectations" marks the third time Ty Burrell has worked opposite Edward Norton. The two had previously worked together on The Incredible Hulk and the off-Broadway play Burn This.