We will never know what happens behind closed doors, and sometimes the unlikeliest of people can be victims of domestic abuse. Therefore, Sarah Hyland is on a crusade to spread awareness about domestic abuse and make it easier for people to open up about their abusers.
The ‘Modern Family‘ actor received an Award at Variety’s Power of Women event for her work. She was accompanied by her on-screen mother, Julie Bowen. Hyland thanked Bowen in her acceptance speech for helping her out in an abusive relationship. Here’s what the actor said.
Sarah Hyland Wants To Support Domestic Violence Survivors Like Julie Bowen Helped Her
Sarah Hyland was awarded the Courage Award at Variety’s Power of Women event held in Los Angeles. Thereafter, Hyland gave an emotional acceptance speech. She began by addressing Julie Bowen who stood at the side of the stage, “I love you.”
She continued “October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and while it is not the easiest topic to talk about, it is of the utmost importance that we do.”
Hyland said, “I have been open about my experiences as a survivor, and I want to support others in the way that Julie and all of my close ones have done for me. Accepting this award for courage has made me think about what that word means to me.”
She added, “It takes courage to wake up every morning and face the world knowing that people may have no idea what you are going through. It is all too easy to feel isolated and misunderstood, no matter how strong you are.”
What Happened To Sarah Hyland’s Abusive Ex, Matthew Prokop?
In 2009 Sarah Hyland began dating actor, Matthew Prokop. He had appeared in Disney films like ‘High School Musical 3’. Matthew and Sarah paired for the 2011 film ‘Geek Charming’ where the couple became teenage sweethearts. Matthew had a cameo appearance in ‘Modern Family’ in season 4.
However, the two broke up in 2014 and Sarah issued a temporary restraining order against Matthew. The ‘Modern Family’ actor stated that Matthew verbally abused her in their four years of relationship and even choked her once. Prokop threatened to burn down Sarah’s house when she ended the relationship.
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A few months later, Sarah was granted a permanent restraining order against her ex-boyfriend. Matthew has not worked in any productions since. In May 2024, he was arrested in his hometown, Texas for aggravated assault on his girlfriend and resisting arrest. Later, he was released on bond.
