During a candid appearance on the Today show on May 14, Modern Family star Sofía Vergara opened up about her dating preferences, emphasizing the importance of finding a partner who matches her financially. “If not, it’s a nightmare,” she said, referencing past relationship challenges tied to income disparities.

Vergara, who finalized her divorce from actor Joe Manganiello in 2023, said she’s looking for someone tall, handsome, healthy, fun — and financially equal or superior. Experts say her perspective mirrors a common issue among high-net-worth individuals navigating romantic relationships.

Wealth psychologist Lami Ronit and therapists Matt Lundquist and Dana McNeil told Business Insider that when women earn more, it can disrupt traditional gender dynamics and spark tension. Income inequality can create imbalances in power, autonomy, and decision-making — often leading to resentment or control issues.

Therapists recommend couples discuss money early and honestly, use proportional contributions over equal ones, and maintain separate and joint accounts to preserve fairness and independence.

Vergara’s frankness about what she wants, experts say, reflects clarity that many wealthy individuals struggle to reach. As Lundquist noted: “She clearly knows what she wants.”