Sarah Hyland, widely recognized for her portrayal of the witty and fashionable Haley Dunphy on the long-running sitcom “Modern Family,” has recently shared insights into the personal health battles she faced throughout the show’s eleven seasons. Her experience behind the scenes was far from the light-hearted tone of the show, as she navigated serious health issues while embodying the role of the eldest Dunphy daughter.
In a candid conversation on her former co-star Jesse Tyler Ferguson’s podcast, “Dinner’s On Me,” Hyland, now 32, revealed the significant impact of kidney dysplasia on her time filming “Modern Family.” This revelation provides a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the actress beyond the script, highlighting her resilience and dedication to her craft amidst personal adversity. For fans of “Modern Family” and admirers of Sarah Hyland, this glimpse into her real-life struggles adds a new layer of appreciation for her performance as Haley.
Hyland explained that her primary focus during those years was simply “surviving,” concentrating intensely on memorizing lines and delivering her best performance whenever the cameras were rolling. The moment the director yelled “cut,” however, she would immediately feel the exhaustion of her health condition. This constant cycle of pushing through for the cameras and then collapsing afterward illustrates the immense pressure and physical toll she endured. Her commitment to maintaining a professional demeanor and delivering a convincing performance as Haley, despite her internal battles, speaks volumes about her work ethic and dedication.
The actress, known for her roles in “Vampire Academy” and “Geek Charming,” has undergone not just one, but two kidney transplants to combat kidney dysplasia. This detail underscores the severity of her condition and the long-term fight she has waged for her health. Her openness about these deeply personal health experiences helps to destigmatize chronic illness and inspires others facing similar challenges.
Hyland recounted one particularly challenging episode where the “Modern Family” cast was filming a scene that involved pushing a car. At the time, she was not only undergoing dialysis but was also on crutches due to gout. Despite these significant physical limitations, she was expected to participate fully in the scene, even wearing high heels as per the wardrobe department’s initial plan for her character’s outfit.
Sarah Hyland at an event, portraying Haley Dunphy from Modern Family.
This anecdote vividly illustrates the disconnect between the demands of her role and her physical reality. Despite being in considerable pain and discomfort, Hyland persevered, channeling her energy into her performance and maintaining her focus on her work. Her ability to compartmentalize her pain and deliver a comedic performance in such circumstances is a testament to her professionalism and strength.
She also expressed her gratitude to Jesse Tyler Ferguson for his support during those difficult times on set. This acknowledgment highlights the importance of supportive colleagues and the bonds formed within the “Modern Family” cast. Ferguson’s understanding and empathy likely provided a crucial source of comfort and encouragement for Hyland as she navigated her health challenges while working.
The Dunphy family from Modern Family sitcom, featuring Sarah Hyland as Haley Dunphy.
In a previous revelation in 2019, Hyland bravely shared that her struggles with poor health had led her to experience suicidal thoughts. She described the intensity of her despair during an appearance on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” explaining that she would mentally compose letters to her loved ones, detailing her reasons for considering suicide and emphasizing that it was “nobody’s fault.” This deeply personal admission sheds light on the mental health challenges that can accompany chronic physical illness and the importance of seeking help.
Hyland emphasized that she ultimately found her way out of that dark period through her own strength and resilience. By sharing her thoughts with a friend and confronting her struggles head-on, she was able to pull herself back from the brink. Her story serves as a powerful message of hope and recovery for others who may be facing similar mental health battles in conjunction with physical ailments.
Sarah Hyland on set of Modern Family, in character as Haley Dunphy.
Sarah Hyland’s journey while filming “Modern Family” was marked by significant personal health trials that remained largely unseen by the audience. Her recent openness about these experiences provides a new perspective on her performance as Haley Dunphy and underscores her strength, resilience, and dedication to her craft. Her story is a reminder that even behind the scenes of beloved sitcoms, actors face real-life challenges that demand immense courage and perseverance.
