Ariel Winter finally broke her silence on her shocking split from Luke Benward.
“He is still one of my best friends, an amazing person and a great pup coparent,” the 28-year-old actress wrote in response People Instagram post.
“Just because sometimes people aren’t meant to be like this doesn’t mean you don’t still appreciate the time you spent and keep the friendship you shared, still a big Luke fan here!!!” she added.
Earlier on Thursday, the publication reported that Ariel and Luke were no longer together. According to the outlet, the longtime couple split in August 2025 after six years of dating.
“It wasn’t until almost six years later that they realized they were better as friends,” the insider said. “They are still best friends and share the puppies, so everything is really good.”
“There is still a lot of love between them,” the source said, adding that Ariel still thinks Luke is “the best.”
For those unfamiliar, the Modern family actress and the The life of the party actor were friends before their relationship turned romantic in 2019.
Speak with Entertainment tonight in 2021, Ariel said the pivot was a surprise.
“Honestly, now it’s the best thing I’ve ever experienced, but it was quite bizarre at first because I didn’t expect that at all,” she explained.
“It’s been the biggest blessing for me. He’s amazing. He’s definitely my safe place,” Ariel added.
