Ariel Winter's mom speaks out about family drama

Modern Family star Ariel Winter's mother has defended herself against allegations she is abusing the teenage actress.

The 14 year old has been removed from her mother Crystal's home by a judge following allegations of physical and emotional abuse.

The actress, who plays Alex Dunphy on the comedy show, attended a legal hearing on 3 October (12) to outline claims her mother subjected her to ongoing physical and emotional abuse, including "slapping, hitting, pushing" and "vile name-calling, personal insults... and attempts to 'sexualize' (a) minor" for an extended period of time.

Winter's sister Shanelle Gray has been granted temporary guardianship of the teenager, who has also obtained a protective order against her mom, which will remain in effect until their next court hearing, set for 20 November (12).

But now her mother has opened up to People magazine, stating, "It's all untrue... I have my doctor's letter that my daughter's never been abused... I have stylists' letters that she's never been abused."

Meanwhile, Winter's brother Jimmy Workman has spoken out about the family drama, telling news show Entertainment Tonight the allegations against his mom are bogus.

He claims Winter does not speak to the rest of the family and insists their mother does everything for the young actress.

Gray appears to disagree - she has filed for full legal guardianship of Winter.