Vergara's first major English-language role on the big screen came with the romantic comedy Chasing Papi (2003). She also starred in "Amas de Casa Desesperadas" (2006-07) -- the Colombian version of "Desperate Housewives" -- and served as the show's executive producer.
U.S. audiences ultimately embraced Vergara as trophy wife Gloria Delgado-Pritchett (paired with polar opposite Ed O'Neill) on the mockumentary-style comedy "Modern Family" (2009-). Critics agreed, rewarding Vergara with Emmy and Golden Globe nominations in 2010 for her supporting work on the series.