Hyland Honors Julie Bowen for Helping Her Through Abuse

At Variety's Power of Women event in Los Angeles, Sarah Hyland delivered an emotional speech, expressing her heartfelt gratitude to her Modern Family co-star and TV mom, Julie Bowen, for being a supportive figure during a difficult time in her life. Hyland was presented with the inaugural Courage Award in recognition of her advocacy for domestic abuse survivors and her commitment to animal welfare. During her acceptance, she spoke about the bravery it took to leave an abusive relationship.

"I didn’t expect this to be so emotional," Hyland said, turning to Bowen, who was standing by her side. "I love you." Hyland took the opportunity to remind the audience that October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, stressing the importance of discussing such a difficult subject. She shared that being open about her own experiences as a survivor was crucial, and that the support she received from people like Bowen helped her find the strength to heal.

Reflecting on the idea of courage, Hyland explained, "It takes courage to wake up each day and face the world, even though no one knows what you're really going through. It’s easy to feel alone and misunderstood, even when you’re strong." She also highlighted Purina’s Purple Leash Project, which provides safe spaces for survivors of domestic violence and their pets. Hyland concluded by thanking everyone who listened to her story and showing compassion, as well as expressing gratitude to both Bowen and her biological mother.

In 2014, Hyland filed a temporary restraining order against her then-boyfriend, actor Matthew Prokop, who had also appeared on Modern Family. She accused him of physical abuse, including choking her and threatening to burn down her house after she ended their relationship. Bowen was named in the legal documents, where Hyland detailed how Bowen helped her navigate the difficult situation and end the relationship in a peaceful manner.

Bowen later discussed her role in supporting Hyland during that time in an interview earlier this year. She expressed a strong maternal affection for Hyland, saying, "I was just a responsible adult who happened to be there when she needed someone." Bowen added, "I'm sure anyone else would have done the same, but I just love her."

Hyland and Bowen played mother and daughter on the hit series Modern Family, which ran for 11 seasons on ABC. The show, which followed the lives of the quirky Pritchett family led by Jay Pritchett (portrayed by Ed O'Neill) and his younger wife Gloria (played by Sofia Vergara), ended in 2020. Despite the series wrapping up, the cast remains close, and many of them attended Hyland's 2022 wedding to Wells Adams, where Jesse Tyler Ferguson, her onscreen uncle, officiated the ceremony.