Former Disney child star Matt Prokop has been arrested and charged with possession of child pornography, according to reports from the United States. The actor, best known for his role in High School Musical 3: Senior Year, was taken into custody in Texas on 24 December.
Details of the Arrest and Charges
The 35-year-old actor was reportedly arrested on Christmas Eve. Court documents show he faces a second-degree felony charge for possession of child pornography. In addition to this serious charge, Prokop was also hit with four misdemeanour counts and a separate charge of aggravated assault of a family member with a weapon.
It is currently unclear when Prokop is scheduled to appear in court to formally answer these allegations. His arrest adds a grave new dimension to a history of legal and personal troubles that have followed the former star.
History of Abuse Allegations from Sarah Hyland
This arrest follows years of disturbing allegations from Prokop's ex-girlfriend, actress Sarah Hyland. The pair dated for five years after meeting on the set of the 2011 Disney film Geek Charming.
In 2014, Hyland was granted a permanent restraining order against Prokop. Court filings obtained by outlets at the time detailed harrowing claims of verbal and physical abuse. Hyland stated that during one argument, Prokop "slammed her into a vehicle and choked her," leaving her unable to breathe and in fear for her life.
Hyland credited her Modern Family co-star Julie Bowen with helping her end the relationship. According to the restraining order filing, Prokop's reaction to Bowen's intervention was to threaten to kill Hyland's dog and burn down her house.
Speaking Out on Domestic Violence
Sarah Hyland has spoken publicly about the importance of victims coming forward. In a 2024 interview with Variety, she reflected on the lasting impact of abuse, noting that painful memories can remain "in that abused place of your soul."
"For thousands of years now, we didn’t talk about it," Hyland said. "I feel that if we talk about it more, more women – and men and just human beings in general in abusive relationships – will feel more comfortable to be able to talk about it." She highlighted how abusers often isolate their victims, making community support crucial.
Beyond his role in the High School Musical franchise, Matt Prokop's acting credits include guest appearances on popular shows like Hannah Montana, The Office, Good Luck Charlie, and Modern Family.
For confidential support, call the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Freephone Helpline on 0808 2000 247 or visit womensaid.co.uk. If you or your family have lost a friend or family member through fatal domestic abuse, AAFDA (Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse) offers specialist support at www.aafda.org.uk. The Samaritans can be contacted free, 24/7, on 116 123.
