Ariel Winter Says She Was a ‘Target’ For Media Body Shaming as a Teen Actress on ‘Modern Family’: ‘It Totally Damaged My Self-Esteem’

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Ariel Winter is discussing the challenges of being famous while she starred in the legendary ABC sitcom “Modern Family.

During an interview with People, Winter revealed that throughout her 11-season stint as Alex Dunphy on the Emmy-winning series, she faced harsh criticism regarding her physical appearance by the media. Given that she was just 14 years old during the early seasons of the show, these negative comments were particularly challenging to handle.

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Winter shared with People that playing Alex Dunphy for 11 seasons on the Emmy-winning sitcom led to unkind remarks about her appearance from the media. As she was only 14 during the initial seasons, this unwelcome attention made it tough to cope.

Every news article I came across about myself, adults were writing pieces criticizing my appearance, commenting on whether I looked pregnant or overweight, even calling me offensive names. I was just 14 years old at the time, and it significantly harmed my self-confidence.” (Winter)

Regardless of my circumstances, I seemed to be an object of focus, she remarked. This made it extremely challenging for me to gaze into the mirror and say, ‘I truly admire this version of myself.’

Since “Modern Family” concluded in 2020, Winter revealed that she and her partner departed Los Angeles, yet she clarified that she didn’t abandon the entertainment industry altogether. In addition to acting, Winter is engaged with SOSA (Safe From Online Sex Abuse), a advocacy group dedicated to shielding young people from online predators.

In essence, yes, I can be considered a survivor as I’ve overcome adversity,” Winter explained. “However, many people have faced hardships just like I have. Labeling me as a survivor doesn’t fully capture my purpose, which is to assist others and bring attention to those who require it.

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2025-05-08 05:24