Sarah Hyland says she is still ‘triggered’ by a past abusive relationship that a Modern Family costar helped her get out of

Sarah Hyland says she is still 'triggered' by a past abusive relationship that a Modern Family costar helped her get out of

As a longtime fan of Modern Family, I have always admired Julie Bowen’s incredible acting skills and her ability to portray a loving mother figure on screen. Her interview about her on-screen children is a testament to her deep connection with her co-stars and the bond they share off-camera.


Sarah Hyland has said that she is still ‘triggered’ by a past abusive relationship.

In an interview with Variety, the actress, aged 33, shared insights into her past as a survivor of domestic violence.

At a recent gathering, the actress shared her thoughts with a magazine following her receipt of the Courage Award at the Variety’s Power of Women event held in Los Angeles on Thursday. The event brought together some members of her Modern Family family.

In simpler terms, Hyland emphasized the significance of openly discussing domestic violence and mentioned the challenges faced by those who survive it for extended periods, dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

She did not name the boyfriend who hit her. 

Five months ago, Sarah’s former partner Matt Prokop was taken into custody due to accusations of assaulting his girlfriend, which followed her filing for a protective order against him back in 2014.

Sarah Hyland says she is still 'triggered' by a past abusive relationship that a Modern Family costar helped her get out of

‘That experience lingers deep within your heart, a place where self-blame takes root, making you believe that it was your responsibility all along, that you should have acted differently or escaped earlier, that you should have spoken up more.’

Sarah commented that ultimately, you seem to no longer wish to discuss the matter further. You appear to want it resolved, and that seems to be the end of it.

I grasp the disassociative behavior thoroughly. It’s a part of me I carry as well… until something sets me off, I was unaware that aspect of me had found healing.

Afterward, the actress confessed, ‘I’m not sure if a woman’s heart [or spirit] will ever completely mend from such an event.’

It leaves a small mark on her spirit, but rather than harboring hatred or disregard for it, she chooses to show love toward the wound.

Hyland added that the topic of domestic violence has long been kept quiet: ‘I think it’s time for more open conversations within our communities.’

Additionally, I believe discussing this topic further may encourage more individuals, regardless of gender, who are in abusive relationships, to feel empowered to share their experiences with their dear ones.

Rather than allowing the abuser to seclude them from everyone as a strategy, it’s crucial not to let such isolation occur since it weakens the support network.

Sarah Hyland says she is still 'triggered' by a past abusive relationship that a Modern Family costar helped her get out of
Sarah Hyland says she is still 'triggered' by a past abusive relationship that a Modern Family costar helped her get out of

According to Variety, it was Sarah who was given the inaugural Courage Award, recognizing her efforts in raising awareness about domestic violence and her contributions to animal welfare.

The honor not only celebrates Hyland’s efforts, but also brings awareness to Purina’s Purple Leash Project which ‘creates safe spaces for domestic abuse survivors and their pets,’ per the official website.  

Sarah expressed her gratitude about the award, stating, “I am deeply touched by it. Navigating the challenges of leaving a relationship, particularly when pets are involved, can be incredibly difficult. It’s crucial to find solutions for this situation, as many shelters do not allow pets.

Julie Bowen, who acted with Hyland on Modern Family before, expressed her joy following Sarah’s acknowledgment.

Bowen explained to Variety that it’s through hardship that we are able to truly understand and express our personality and identity.

From an early stage in her life, Sarah found herself confronted with challenges, not just those that were physical in nature, but also emotional ones.

Julie continued, expressing, “She faces every situation with resolve, elegance, and openness. It makes me incredibly proud to see Variety honoring her courage and compassion with the Courage Award.

In June of this year, Bowen mentioned assisting Sarah in leaving a ten-year-old abusive relationship.

Sarah Hyland says she is still 'triggered' by a past abusive relationship that a Modern Family costar helped her get out of

In a surprising twist, Adam Sandler, famous for his role in Happy Gilmore, also played the part of Claire Dunphy in Modern Family. Meanwhile, Sarah Hyland portrayed Haley, Claire’s on-screen daughter, across all 11 seasons of the show.

On The Skinny Confidential Him & Her podcast, Lauryn Evarts Bosstick shared that Sarah Hyland publicly acknowledged Bosstick’s role in helping her during a difficult time in her life, specifically by assisting her escape from a harmful relationship.

In reply, Bowen remarked, “That’s really kind of her,” as Lauryn noted that she was more like a mother figure to Hyland.

Julie put it this way, “I was simply in the right place at the right time, being an accountable adult. It’s likely any other responsible individual would have acted similarly. Yet, I hold a special affection for her.

Then, the host inquired, “Does your gaze towards her carry a maternal feeling?” To this, the actress responded with a gentle affirmation, “Absolutely.

In the show, she referred to her on-screen family members from Modern Family as if they were her real children. Ariel Winter and Nolan Gould portrayed her kids, while Rico Rodriguez was cast as her younger stepbrother in the series.

Lauryn wondered if it was possible to contact them via text or call at any time, and Bowen responded affirmatively. In simpler terms, Lauryn asked if they could reach out by text or phone whenever they wanted, and Bowen agreed.

In September 2014, a restraining order was issued against Matt Prokop, formerly dating Hyland.

Sarah Hyland says she is still 'triggered' by a past abusive relationship that a Modern Family costar helped her get out of

Back then, I was utterly devastated when I learned about the allegations against my beloved actor. He was accused of both physical and verbal abuse, with a particularly harrowing incident in May 2014 where he reportedly choked me until I couldn’t breathe or speak, as revealed by documents obtained by Us Weekly.

Following their separation, it is claimed that Matt additionally sent her texts and calls that were both intimidating and emotionally distressing.

Per the documents, Sarah had also reached out Julie to help her ‘peacefully end the relationship.’

About a couple of months following when Hyland secured the permanent restraining order, Bowen declared that Sarah was thriving well after their separation, using the term ‘excellent’.

In an interview with Us Weekly back in 2014, she said, “I’m naturally curious and always want to know what’s going on. I’m involved in everything – my real kids, my adopted kids, and even those I consider as part of my family. If someone needs help, they can count on me being compassionate.

Regarding Sarah’s state at that moment, the actress exclaimed, ‘Wow, Sarah is fantastic! She’s like an angel. I simply adore her. I truly love her.’

Sarah and Matt started going out together in 2010, following their roles in the Disney channel film called “Geek Charming.

Sarah Hyland says she is still 'triggered' by a past abusive relationship that a Modern Family costar helped her get out of
Sarah Hyland says she is still 'triggered' by a past abusive relationship that a Modern Family costar helped her get out of

Since then, Hyland found a new chapter in her life by marrying television personality Wells Adams, during a heartwarming ceremony held at a California vineyard in August 2022.

At the event were some of her Modern Family co-stars, such as Eric Stonestreet (Bowen), Ariel Winter, Nolan Gould, Sofia Vergara, and Jesse Tyler Ferguson who served as the wedding officiant.

On Thursday, Hyland got to see Bowen and Ferguson again at the Power of Women function.

She stunned in an elegant silver gown that contained black fabric around the neckline while at the ceremony.  

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2024-10-25 23:36

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