**Ariel Winter: From ‘Modern Family’ Star to Advocate for Change**
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Ariel Winter, who rose to prominence as Alex Dunphy in the popular sitcom “Modern Family” from 2009 to 2020, has made headlines for her courageous decision to leave Hollywood behind. The child star, who began acting at the tender age of four, found the pressures of fame overwhelming, particularly as she dealt with the challenges of adolescence in the public eye.
Following the show’s conclusion, Winter opted to relocate from her lifelong home of Los Angeles to a quieter town in Tennessee. In an interview with PEOPLE in May 2025, Winter reflected on the negative attention she received throughout her teenage years. “It was just everywhere,” she recounted, describing how public scrutiny affected her self-esteem as a young girl. “I was 14, and I would read articles about myself that described me in unkind terms.”
To escape the relentless online criticism and to rediscover herself, Winter’s relocation marked a new chapter in her life. Alongside her then-boyfriend, Luke Benward, Winter started a journey toward self-healing, focusing on her love for cooking and her commitment to combating online sexual predators. Although their six-year relationship ended in August 2025, Winter emphasised that her move was essential for her well-being.
Despite her departure from Hollywood, Winter has not stepped away from acting entirely. She has continued to lend her voice to the beloved Disney franchise “Sofia the First,” in which she has played the lead character since 2012. The latest installment, titled “Royal Magic,” is set to premiere on May 25, 2026. This ongoing commitment to voice acting highlights Winter’s desire to remain engaged with her craft, even if it means doing so from a distance.
In her time away from Los Angeles, Winter has also taken the opportunity to address her past and reconsider her relationship with fame. In addition to the difficulties of being a child star, Winter has navigated a challenging upbringing marked by a turbulent relationship with her mother, Chrisoula Workman. At 14, Winter was placed under her sister’s care and eventually became legally emancipated, a painful experience she has opened up about.
“I went on to have a great rest of my teenage years thanks to being under her custody,” Winter shared, recognising the significance of her sister’s support. “Honestly, it’s just my entire childhood. It’s a really deep, painful part for me that’s so much more significant than I’ve ever felt ready to talk about.”
Winter has also been busy promoting her voice acting roles in various television shows following a three-year hiatus after “Modern Family” wrapped up. Her return to the screen includes notable performances in projects like “Star Trek: Lower Decks” and “The Sisters Grimm,” demonstrating her versatility and commitment to her career.
The starlet has made it clear that her departure from L.A. does not equate to a complete withdrawal from the acting industry. “I didn’t leave the industry,” she told PEOPLE, clarifying that her intention was simply to create a healthier environment for herself. “It holds some not-great memories for me, and I’m young and have never lived anywhere else,” she added.
As Winter embraces her new life, she is exploring her other passions, including cooking. The actress regularly shares her culinary creations on social media, showcasing her enthusiasm for cooking and entertaining. Furthermore, Winter has expressed a desire to launch her own podcast and cooking show, combining her love for storytelling and gastronomy.
Another cornerstone of Winter’s present life involves her advocacy work. She is actively involved with the organisation SOSA (Safe From Online Sex Abuse), contributing to projects aimed at raising awareness and providing support for young victims of online predation. “I was that kid who had been preyed upon online so many times,” she explained of her motivation to help others. “More than anything, I want my story to be that she uses her platform for good.”
As Winter continues her journey of self-discovery and activism, she remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, demonstrating resilience and commitment to her passions. While her experiences in the public eye have shaped her, her focus now lies in healing and using her voice to benefit others, finding strength in her vulnerabilities.