Ariel Winter has become officially emancipated several years after being estranged from her mother Chrisoula Workman. Winter, who is now 17 years old, began seeking legal emancipation when she was only 14.
Winter is more popularly known as Alex Dunphy, the sarcastic bookworm in the ABC sitcom Modern Family. She was also the voice behind the characters Sofia in the animated series Sofia the First from Disney and Marina the Mermaid from Jake and the Never Land Pirates.
"I am now officially emancipated!!!," tweeted Winter. "I'm really lucky I have an amazing support system and lovely people in my life who have given me the support and guidance to have been given this wonderful opportunity."
I am now officially emancipated!!! I'm really lucky I have an amazing support system and lovely people in my life… https://t.co/lJtlpGoEYc
— Ariel Winter (@arielwinter1) May 15, 2015
In December 2012, Winter was placed under the custody of her sister Shanelle Gray who became her permanent guardian after the Department of Children and Family Services of L.A. Country found evidence of abuse. Their father, Glenn Workman, was allowed to take control of the young actress' finances in 2014.
Winter thanked her sister and father for giving her the support she needed particularly during those times when she was having a legal battle against her mother. She also thanked her fans for their encouraging words.
"Thank you for making my life so special! I can't wait to embark on my new adventures," wrote Winter.
The actress also posted a number of snapshots on social media showing herself with her current beau Laurent Claude Gaudette attending a prom. Her dad saw her off in the occasion, one of the most momentous in a teenager's life.
Being emancipated means that Winter will no longer need parental permission whenever she seeks medical care, when she applies for a work permit, or when she signs up for college. It also means that she can now live wherever she wants and that she should be supporting herself even if she's not yet 18.
Winter also gave an Instagram shout-out to her sister on the occasion of Mother's Day. "I love you more than words can even describe and I'm so lucky to have you as my sister," said Winter.
