Sarah Hyland expresses gratitude to Julie Bowen for supporting her in leaving past 'abusive' relationship
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Sarah Hyland expressed gratitude to her TV mom Julie Bowen while receiving the inaugural Courage Award at Variety’s Power of Women Honors in Los Angeles on October 24.
The 'Modern Family' star is recognized for her dedication to animal welfare and advocacy for domestic violence survivors. In an emotional speech, Hyland highlighted her journey as a survivor.
Julie Bowen’s heartfelt introduction to Sarah Hyland
Sarah Hyland was introduced by her 'Modern Family' co-star Julie Bowen, whom she referred to as her "TV mom."
Bowen recounted the shock she felt upon learning of Hyland’s abusive relationship and the lengths she went to help her escape it.
“When I got the call one day to ask if I could help extricate her from an abusive domestic situation, I was stunned,” said Bowen.
"It took real courage for Sarah to ask for help. Getting out of her situation put Sarah at risk of further physical, psychological, and emotional abuse," she added.
Sarah Hyland reflects on her journey and support system
In her emotional speech, Sarah Hyland acknowledged the importance of speaking openly about domestic violence, particularly during October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
"I have been open about my experiences as a survivor, and I want to support others in the way that Julie [Bowen] and all of my close ones have done for me," she shared, according to Variety.
As Hyland accepted her award, she spoke about the often hidden pain of survivors and the daily courage it takes to face the world.
“It takes courage to wake up every morning and face the world knowing that people may have no idea what you are going through,” she said, adding that it can feel isolating no matter one’s strength.
The 33-year-old actress became emotional as she recounted her reliance on her dog, Barkley, during her hardest times, saying, “There was a time where the only being that I could trust with my true feelings, and felt the safest with, was with my dog, Barkley.”
Hyland also applauded Purina and its partner RedRover’s Purple Leash Project, which supports animal welfare in domestic violence situations.
She concluded her speech with a heartfelt thanks to Bowen and her family for their unwavering support.
Sarah Hyland’s past experience with abuse and resilience
In 2014, Sarah Hyland obtained a restraining order against her former boyfriend, Matt Prokop, after alleging years of verbal and physical abuse.
The order included claims that Prokop, now 34, had choked her, threatened her pet, and even vowed to burn down her house.
Before the restraining order was finalized, Bowen intervened, providing Hyland the help she needed to safely leave the relationship.
