Sarah Hyland gets candid with Variety about her domestic violence experience with her “Geek Charming” co-star and ex-boyfriend, Matt Prokop.

October 25, 2024- In light of being awarded the Courage Award from Variety, “Modern Family” star Sarah Hyland recently opened up with Variety about her experience with domestic violence and her journey to advocacy.Sarah Hyland Opens Up About Domestic Violence

Sarah Hyland Domestic Violence Story

Sarah Hyland’s upcoming Courage Award from Variety, to be presented at the Power of Women gala on October 30, marks a milestone in her journey as a survivor and advocate for domestic abuse awareness.

According to Variety, Hyland obtained a restraining order 10 years ago against her then-boyfriend and “Geek Charming” co-star, Matt Prokop, after enduring years of emotional and physical abuse.Sarah Hyland Opens Up About Domestic Violence

This legal move included protection for her dog, as Prokop had reportedly used threats against her pet as a means of control.

Hyland, 33, is vocal about how leaving that relationship was not only about reclaiming her life but also about protecting her emotional support—her dog.

Speaking about the challenges survivors face, she emphasizes, “A lot of shelters are not allowing pets… and to figure out the logistics of how to get out [of the relationship] and do that, especially with animals, is so important.”

Matt Prokop’s Arrest

Her experience with Prokop’s abuse has fueled her passion for raising awareness of support systems, including Purina’s Purple Leash Program, which helps make shelters pet-friendly for abuse survivors.Sarah Hyland Opens Up About Domestic Violence

“If we talk about it more, more women—and men…will feel more comfortable… instead of letting their abuser isolate them from everyone,” she told Variety.

Hyland’s “Modern Family” co-star, Julie Bowen, expressed pride in her resilience.

“Sarah’s path has forced her…to take on challenges—both physical and emotional. She has met each moment with determination, grace, and vulnerability,” Bowen said.

This Courage Award honors both her strength and her dedication to others facing similar struggles.Sarah Hyland Opens Up About Domestic Violence

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Published by HOLR Magazine

Image Credit: @sarahhyland Instagram