Sofia addresses the flack she’s received for Gloria.

Ever since she began portraying Gloria Pritchett on Modern Family, Sofia Vergara has received tons of flack for portraying a stereotype on TV. But Vergara has no problem with that and even says that it’s because of her that Latinas with strong accents can be on TV.

Speaking with Hola! USA, she said,

“Gloria’s character is inspired by my mom and my aunt. They are both Latin women who grew up in Colombia, like me. They love color, prints, and shoes.”

She added,

“It upsets me when Latinos complain about Gloria. I am grateful for the opportunity because the gringos have let me in with this strong accent I have. Eight years ago nobody had an accent like this on television.”

Vergara has been nominated four times for a Golden Globe for the role so clearly somebody likes what she’s doing!

Since starting on Modern Family, Sofia has landed an endorsement deal with CoverGirl, started her own K-Mart line, and her own underwear line.

Modern Family airs on ABC Wednesdays at 9 PM.

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