Ariel Winter Thanks Dad and Sister After Being ‘Officially Emancipated’

After dealing with a custody battle for three years, Ariel Winter is officially emancipated and is very grateful for having "an amazing support system."

Ariel made the announcement on Twitter yesterday (May 15). She wrote:

I am now officially emancipated!!! 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. Most importantly I want to thank @shanelle_gray and my father for their special support regarding this matter, I really couldn't have done it without them. Thank you to all of my family, friends, and fans who have supported me through all of my endeavors in life, and have encouraged me. Thank you for making my life so special! I can't wait to embark on my new adventures. ❤️ xo

In November 2012, Ariel was taken from her mother Chrisoula "Chrystal" Workman's home after allegations that the Modern Family star was emotional and physically abused. Despite what transpired with her mom, Ariel continued a close relationship with her dad, Glenn Workman, and older sister Shanelle Gray. Then in May 2014, Shanelle became her legal guardian. And Ariel showed her appreciation for the big sis by posting a cute photo on Instagram with a touching message this past Mother's Day (May 10).

"You're an amazing mother, an amazing sister, and an amazing wife, among many other things. It's incredible to me how you can be such a successful business woman, such an amazing mother to your kids, and also be my best friend," Ariel wrote in the caption. You can read the whole message and see the photo below.