Modern Family’s Sarah Hyland reflects on past abusive relationship

As a fan who has followed Sarah Hyland’s career since her days as Haley Dunphy on Modern Family, it’s been both inspiring and heartbreaking to witness her journey, especially when it comes to her experiences with domestic abuse.


Note: The following article contains discussion of domestic abuse.

Modern Family star Sarah Hyland has reflected on her past abusive relationship.

In 2014, the actress known for portraying Haley Dunphy on the popular ABC sitcom was issued a restraining order, involving her former boyfriend and costar from the movie “Geek Charming,” Matthew Prokop.

Documents from TMZ previously disclosed claims that during their five-year relationship, Prokop had perpetrated both physical and emotional abuse against Hyland.

During the inaugural presentation of Variety’s Courage Award, Hyland articulated the significant impact of openly discussing her personal encounter with domestic violence, in relation to her efforts in animal welfare and domestic abuse awareness.

Modern Family's Sarah Hyland reflects on past abusive relationship

She expressed that for a long time, our community has been rather quiet on this matter, and I think there should be more openness about it.

“I believe that discussing this topic more openly will make it easier for people in abusive relationships, regardless of gender, to share their experiences with their loved ones, rather than allowing the abuser to keep them isolated. This isolation is often the first step an abuser takes, thereby reducing the support network.

“So we have to keep talking about it. It’s really important to be able to help those in need.”

Later, Hyland explained that PTSD can linger in a person long after they’ve left an abusive partnership.

[It lingers] in that troubled corner of your spirit, where you constantly blame yourself for what happened and believe you should have acted differently or escaped earlier, as if you had the power to warn others,” she clarified.

Modern Family's Sarah Hyland reflects on past abusive relationship

It seems like you’ve moved on from this topic and want to close the conversation about it. I get that you’re trying to distance yourself emotionally, which is a common response. I can relate as I do the same thing myself at times, until something triggers me and I realize that aspect of myself has healed.

“I’m not sure if the emotional wound from that experience will ever completely heal in any woman. It leaves a sort of mark on her spirit, like a scar. Instead of harboring hatred for it or trying to ignore it, it might be more beneficial to offer love and attention towards the scar.

Digital Spy has reached out to representatives of Prokop for comment.

Following her 11-season run on “Modern Family”, Hyland then featured in romantic comedies such as “My Fake Boyfriend” and “The Wedding Year”. Additionally, she appeared in the spin-off series of “Pitch Perfect”, titled “Bumper in Berlin”.

2022 saw her take on hosting duties for “Love Island USA”. However, she had to step away from the role earlier this year because of scheduling complications.

Modern Family seasons 1-11 are available to stream on Disney+.

Should any of the matters discussed in this article resonate with you, organizations like Refuge and Women’s Aid offer additional assistance and resources. You can reach out to the National Domestic Abuse Helpline, a service available 24/7, by dialing 0808 2000 247 free of charge.

The US National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or text LOVEIS to 22522.

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2024-10-26 00:48

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