Ariel Winter, a former cast member of the popular TV show Modern Family, has opened up about her difficult childhood in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.

Winter claimed that her mother, Crystal Workman, sexualized her from a young age and that food was severely restricted in her household from the time she began acting at the age of four.

Winter also alleged that her mother physically and emotionally abused her when she was 14, leading to her older sister, Shanelle Gray, gaining temporary custody of her in 2012. At the age of 17, Winter was emancipated.

Winter claimed that she was sexualized as early as age seven and would often be dressed in clothing that was inappropriate for her age, stating, “If there was going to be a nude scene when I was that age, my mother would have a thousand percent said yes.”

Winter’s curvy figure on Modern Family drew criticism from cyber bullies, leading to comments about her weight and dress sense.

Winter said that she would try to change herself, but it would only lead to more hate. She now tries not to let the negative comments get to her.

Despite her difficult childhood, Winter is optimistic about her future. She was accepted at UCLA and began college classes in September 2017, but she says she “definitely” wants to continue acting.

Winter is studying at college to gain knowledge in another field, and she is looking forward to learning.

Winter took to Instagram to thank her friends and fans for their support over the years, giving her father a special shout-out.

“He is one of the closest people in my life — I’m very lucky to have you dad! I love you. Thank you for being there for me always and being so amazing,” she wrote.

In the same interview, Winter spoke about her desire to create a career that she wants and not one that is forced upon her.

She explained that she had experienced the career aspect and had taken care of herself, but now wanted to gain knowledge in a different field.

She also stated that she wouldn’t have traded her difficult childhood because it made her who she is today.

Winter’s story of childhood abuse and sexualization has shone a light on the issue of child actors in Hollywood.

Several celebrities, including Drew Barrymore and Macaulay Culkin, have previously spoken about their experiences of growing up in the industry and the toll it took on their mental health.

The issue of child actors’ welfare is not a new one, with the industry frequently criticized for not doing enough to protect young performers.

In recent years, there have been several high-profile cases of child stars suffering from mental health problems or addiction, including former Disney star Demi Lovato and Riverdale actor Cole Sprouse.

In response to Winter’s claims, her mother, Crystal Workman, has denied the allegations of abuse and sexualization, calling them “totally false.”

Workman also claimed that Winter’s allegations were a result of her being “unhappy” about being asked to follow rules, saying, “I have always been there for Ariel and will always be there for her.”

Winter has previously spoken about the impact of her difficult childhood on her mental health, revealing that she had struggled with anxiety and depression.

She has also been vocal about the importance of seeking help and support for mental health issues, encouraging others to speak out and seek help if they need it.

Despite her difficult upbringing, Winter has become a role model for young people around the world.

She has used her platform to raise awareness about mental health and body positivity, encouraging others to love themselves and embrace their unique qualities.