How “Modern Family”’s Aubrey Anderson-Emmons Is ‘Accepting Parts of Me That I Didn’t Like as a Kid’ (Exclusive)

Aubrey Anderson-Emmons Reflects on Name Change and Debut EP

After her iconic role on the hit TV show Modern Family, Aubrey Anderson-Emmons, now 18 years old, is embarking on a new chapter in her life. The talented star recently released her debut EP titled ‘Drown’ on August 8 under her new artist name, Frances Anderson. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Anderson-Emmons shared insights into her journey of self-discovery and creative expression.

Transitioning from her childhood role as Lily Tucker-Pritchett to Frances Anderson signifies a significant personal evolution for the young artist. Anderson-Emmons revealed that the name Frances, which she initially disliked, symbolises a deeper acceptance of herself and her past. She shared, “It’s almost about accepting parts of me that I didn’t like as a kid or not being afraid to pull those things forward.”

The five-track EP, ‘Drown,’ delves into themes of childhood nostalgia and personal growth, reflecting Anderson-Emmons’ own experiences. The artist explained that the project marks a pivotal moment in her life, coinciding with her decision to leave a long-term relationship and graduate from high school early this year. She expressed, “It’s coming of age. I wanted to be truthful for who I am and not who I played on TV.”

Despite her newfound focus on music, Anderson-Emmons hasn’t completely closed the door on acting. The multi-talented artist shared her aspirations of one day gracing the Broadway stage. Additionally, she expressed interest in pursuing a college education, particularly in musical theatre. Balancing her passion for music with potential academic pursuits, Anderson-Emmons is keeping her options open for the future.

Reflecting on her musical upbringing, Anderson-Emmons recalled her early exposure to diverse musical influences, including The Beatles and Michael Jackson. Despite a brief stint in piano lessons that she didn’t enjoy, her love for music continued to grow over the years, shaping her artistic identity.

Looking ahead, Anderson-Emmons envisions a future filled with creative opportunities, including the possibility of going on tour and performing live. She expressed her desire to share her music with audiences and bring joy through her artistry. The young artist dreams of showcasing her music on platforms like an NPR Tiny Desk concert, highlighting her ambition to connect with listeners on a deeper level.

As she navigates this exciting phase in her career, Anderson-Emmons remains grounded in her love for activities like horseback riding, hiking, and hot yoga classes. Embracing a well-rounded lifestyle, she finds joy in both her artistic pursuits and personal hobbies, creating a harmonious balance in her life.

With her debut EP, ‘Drown,’ now available to listeners, Frances Anderson, formerly known as Aubrey Anderson-Emmons, is carving out her path in the music industry. Her story of self-discovery and creative exploration serves as a testament to the transformative power of artistry and personal growth.

In conclusion, Aubrey Anderson-Emmons’ journey towards embracing her true self and pursuing her passion for music is an inspiring narrative of resilience and reinvention. As she continues to evolve as an artist, her authenticity and artistic vision shine through in every note of her debut EP.