Ariel Winter
Bindi Irwin is inspired by “Modern Family” star Ariel Winter, pictured Feb. 26, 2016. Getty Images

“Dancing With the Stars” champion Bindi Irwin is in awe of Ariel Winter, who stars on the hit show “Modern Family.” Winter, who had breast reduction surgery, is an advocate for body confidence. Irwin praised the actress during an exclusive interview with Entertainment Tonight Online Friday.

“I love her so much because she has got to be one of the strongest women that I know,” Irwin said. “You look at what she posts and just as an individual she's a lovely being - she's a girl with a message!”

Even though the two aren’t necessary friends, they follow each other on Twitter and Instagram. “She's an amazing person,” Irwin gushed.

Irwin, who is the daughter of legendary crocodile hunter Steve Irwin, loves that Winter wants to inspire other people. “You have to love who you are and know that you are beautiful and own it,” she said. “I think that what's delightful is [Ariel] does inspire so many young girls just to love who they are.”

Rumors recently swirled that Winter was going to get fired from “Modern Family” because ABC can’t afford her. “Ariel isn’t central to the show, so she’s at the top of the chopping block,” an insider told Star Magazine July 20. “She’ll be sad to leave — the cast is a second family to her — but she’s also very excited for the next opportunity.”

It’s just gossip for now. Steve Levitan, the co-creator and executive producer of “Modern Family,” told Gossip Cop July 20 Winter would stay on the show. “Nothing could be further from the truth. Ariel is a beloved cast member and a crucial part of our show,” he said Wednesday. “While she is starting to attend classes this year at UCLA, we are happy to report that she’ll continue to be a part of Modern Family’s coming season.”

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