Modern Family‘s Ariel Winter Is Emancipated

2 minute read

Ariel Winter is officially an emancipated minor.

The Modern Family star announced the end to her years-long custody drama Friday.

“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,” she Tweeted.

The 17-year-old also gave a shout-out to older sister Shanelle Gray, who became her guardian in 2012 after the Department of Children and Family Services found evidence of her mom Chrisoula Workman emotionally abusing Ariel.

Workman fought the court’s decision until last May, when she settled the case just before the mother and daughter would have gone to trial.

“Most importantly, I want to thank @shanelle_gray and my father or their special support regarding this matter, I really couldn’t have done it without them,” Ariel Tweeted on Friday. “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.”

Last weekend, Ariel paid tribute to her sister with a sweet Mother’s Day Instagram.

“Without your love and support,” she wrote, “I wouldn’t have become the person I am today.”

In April, the actress’s TV mom, Julie Bowen, told PEOPLE how proud she is to have watched Ariel grow up on the show.

“I love those kids. Ariel is just wonderful, and she can do anything,” she said. “They’re all just such good kids in real life.”

This article originally appeared on People.com

More Must-Reads from TIME

Contact us at letters@time.com