Sarah Hyland is stronger than anyone knows. News broke on Tuesday, Sept. 23, that the Modern Family actress had obtained a temporary restraining order against ex-boyfriend Matt Prokop, who she claims threatened and verbally abused her throughout their relationship. A source tells Us Weekly it was a "really scary situation" for the star, but adds that she's resilient and trying to move forward with her life.
"She's a strong girl. I have no doubt she will bounce back from this," the insider tells Us. "She's been through a lot in her life, but she's still an amazing and strong person."
The source adds that it'll probably be a while "before she's ready to date again," so she's "focusing on work" for the time being. "She just wants to leave this situation behind her," the insider says.
In court documents obtained by Us Weekly, Hyland alleges that Prokop once "pinned [her] against a car," called her names, and placed his hands around her throat. "His grip was so tight that I could not breathe or speak," she claims in the docs. "I was scared and in fear for my life."
The actress also alleges in the request for a restraining order that her ex freaked out and threw a lighter at her when she broke up with him. Her TV mom, Julie Bowen, was reportedly there at the time of the breakup, and had to step in. "It's true that Matt freaked," a second insider tells Us, adding that other members of Hyland's team were on hand as well.
Hyland's lawyer released a statement about the allegations on Tuesday night, saying, "The documents filed speak for themselves. Out of respect for the court, the process, and all parties, I have advised Ms. Hyland not to comment on the matter."
Prokop's rep has yet to respond to Us Weekly's request for comment.
