What's wrong with being a stereotype? asks Sofia Vergara about 'Modern Family' role

Model-actress Sofia Vergara, who plays Gloria Pritchett on ABC's hit series Modern Family, said she is not at all bothered about the criticism, her role of Latino-Americana had received.

The 44-year-old star has been receiving backlash for playing a stereotypical Latina on the show.

Talking about the criticism, the Colombian beauty told HOLA! USA, "What's wrong with being a stereotype?" The actress explained that the character is inspired by her mother and her aunt, who are both latin women.

"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 colour, prints, and shoes. It upsets me when Latinos complain about Gloria."

The 44-year-old actress continued, "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."

This isn't the first time Vergara reacted to criticism she gets from portraying the role.

"I'm not afraid of them (stereotypes) and they don't have to be bad either. I mean, Gloria is an amazing character, a really good woman with this hilarious accent, so why criticise her for being a stereotype? Plus, All the Latinas I know are loud, they dress sexy and are really involved with their families. That's Gloria," she said last year.