Ariel Winter, the actress known for her role as Alex Dunphy on the popular TV show “Modern Family,” has opened up about her decision to leave Los Angeles. Winter, now 27, revealed that she moved away from the city to escape the trauma she experienced during her childhood in the spotlight. Winter began acting at a young age and faced intense public scrutiny throughout her time on “Modern Family.” She shared that the constant negative comments about her appearance deeply affected her self-esteem.
“It was just everywhere,” Winter said. “It was every headline I read about myself, like, grown people saying how I looked terrible or pregnant or like a fat s—. I mean, I was 14.
It totally damaged my self-esteem.”
In addition to the public criticism, Winter also faced personal struggles at home. She was allegedly abused by her mother, a claim her mother has denied. At the age of 14, Winter was placed under the care of her older sister, Shanelle Gray, by Child Protective Services.
“I went on to have a great rest of my teenage years thanks to being under her custody,” Winter stated. After “Modern Family” ended in 2020, Winter and her boyfriend, actor Luke Benward, made the decision to leave Los Angeles. Despite this move, Winter emphasized that she has not left the entertainment industry.
She continues to pursue acting and has also ventured into producing.
Ariel Winter’s new chapter
Winter is working on personal projects as well, such as starting a podcast and developing a cooking show.
“I didn’t leave the industry,” Winter clarified. “I just left the city of L.A. It holds some not-great memories for me, and I’m young and never lived anywhere else, and thought, ‘Why not?’ If you’re no longer on a network show that shoots there, you don’t really have to be there, and if I get a network show, I can easily go back.”
Winter’s experience sheds light on the challenges that child actors often face while growing up in the public eye. The constant scrutiny and criticism can take a significant toll on their mental health and well-being.
Winter’s decision to prioritize her own healing and happiness by leaving Los Angeles serves as an example for others who may be facing similar struggles. As Winter continues to build her career and explore new opportunities, she remains committed to using her platform to help others. She has become involved in efforts to combat online sexual predators, inspired by her own experiences with online grooming.
“It just impacted me so deeply because I’d been that kid who’d been preyed upon online so many times,” Winter shared. Through her advocacy work and personal growth, Winter is shifting her narrative from one of survival to one focused on making a positive impact. “Technically, yes, I’m a survivor.
I’ve gone through some s—,” she admits. “But a lot of people have gone through some s—. Calling me a survivor takes away from what I’m here for, which is to help others and shine a spotlight on those that need it.
More than anything, I want my story to be that she uses her platform for good.”
