News Page

Main Content

"Modern Family" Star Ariel Winter Explained Why She Knows How It Feels To "Be Hated," And It's Heartbreaking

BuzzFeed's profile
BuzzFeed
May 7

Context:

Ariel Winter, known for her role as Alex Dunphy on 'Modern Family,' has opened up about the challenges she faced growing up in the public eye. Starting her career at 11, she dealt with intense scrutiny and criticism about her appearance, significantly impacting her self-esteem. Despite the end of 'Modern Family' in 2020 and her move away from Los Angeles, Ariel continues to pursue acting while also engaging in advocacy work with SOSA, a nonprofit fighting online child sex abuse. She emphasizes that her experiences have led her to use her platform to help others rather than focusing on her survivor status. Ariel's journey of healing is centered around her commitment to supporting and bringing attention to those in need through her advocacy efforts.

Dive Deeper:

  • Ariel Winter began her acting career at the age of 11 on the hit show 'Modern Family', where she played Alex Dunphy for 11 seasons. Throughout her time on the show, she was subjected to harsh criticism and body shaming from the media and public, which severely affected her self-esteem.

  • At the age of 14, Ariel faced derogatory comments that labeled her appearance in negative terms, leading her to feel hated and targeted, which contributed to her struggles with self-image.

  • After 'Modern Family' concluded in 2020, Ariel decided to leave Los Angeles for a change of environment, though she remains active in the entertainment industry and is open to returning if new opportunities arise.

  • In addition to her acting career, Ariel is involved with SOSA, an organization focused on combating online child sex abuse and trafficking, where she contributes through undercover operations, advocacy, and education.

  • Ariel expresses a desire to use her personal experiences and platform to aid others, choosing to focus on helping and shining a light on those who need support, rather than emphasizing her own challenges.

  • Her move away from Los Angeles was motivated by the desire to escape the negative memories associated with the city, and to explore living elsewhere while continuing her professional pursuits.

  • Ariel's work with SOSA reflects her commitment to advocacy, and she hopes her story will highlight her dedication to using her influence for positive change and assistance to others in need.

Latest Entertainment

Related Stories

The Weeknd's Setlist for 2025 'After Hours Til Dawn' Tour Revealed After First Show in Phoenix
Just Jared logo

Just Jared

The Weeknd's Setlist for 2025 'After Hours Til Dawn' Tour Revealed After First Show in Phoenix

The Weeknd has launched his 2025 stadium concert tour and we have the full set list from opening night! The After Hours Til Dawn tour kicked off with a sold-out show on Friday night (May 9) at State Farm Stadium in Phoenix, Ariz. The Weeknd was joined by ...
3h ago
General Hospital's Kirsten Storms Admits Affair Storyline with Older Co-Star Greg Vaughan Was 'A Little Strange'
Just Jared logo

Just Jared

General Hospital's Kirsten Storms Admits Affair Storyline with Older Co-Star Greg Vaughan Was 'A Little Strange'

Kirsten Storms is looking back at one of Maxie Jones’ controversial storylines on General Hospital. In a new interview, the 41-year-old actress admitted that her affair storyline with former co-star Greg Vaughan, who played Lucky Spencer, was “a little st...
3h ago
Wealthiest 'House' Stars Revealed, Estimated Net Worth Ranked From Lowest to Highest
Just Jared logo

Just Jared

Wealthiest 'House' Stars Revealed, Estimated Net Worth Ranked From Lowest to Highest

Can you believe it’s been over 20 years since House first debuted?! The award-winning Fox medical drama centered on Dr. Gregory House (Hugh Laurie), who is devoid of anything resembling bedside manner and wouldn’t even talk to his patients if he could get...
3h ago
Khloe Kardashian Stuns in Purple Dress as She's Honored at German Perfume Awards 2025 in Germany!
Just Jared logo

Just Jared

Khloe Kardashian Stuns in Purple Dress as She's Honored at German Perfume Awards 2025 in Germany!

Khloe Kardashian is slaying in Germany! The 40-year-old reality star stepped out for the 2025 German Perfume Awards, also known as the Duftstars, on Thursday (May 8) held at Rheinterrasse in Düsseldorf, Germany. Khloe looked stunning in a sparkling purple...
3h ago