Sofía Vergara Reportedly Gives Custody Rights to Joe Manganiello — What It Really Means
In a surprising and emotionally charged turn of events, sources close to the once-iconic couple Sofía Vergara and Joe Manganiello have revealed that Vergara has relinquished custody rights to something deeply meaningful — but it’s not what most people initially assumed.
Rumors have been swirling for months following the couple’s high-profile divorce, which was finalized after seven years of marriage. While there are no children involved between the two, reports suggest that custody discussions centered around something else entirely — their beloved pet dog, Bubbles, a Chihuahua-Pomeranian mix who had become a central figure in their relationship.
The Real Story Behind the “Custody” Headline
According to insiders, Sofía Vergara has agreed to give full custody of Bubbles to Joe Manganiello, allowing him to be the sole caretaker of the dog they both doted on during their time together. While some outlets jumped on the term “custody” and implied a more scandalous situation, those familiar with the matter say it was an amicable, deeply emotional decision.
“Sofía loves Bubbles,” a source told People Magazine. “But she knows how much that dog means to Joe, and she didn’t want to cause any further emotional pain by fighting over her.”
The photo you uploaded shows Vergara on a luxury boat, arms raised high, wearing a confident smile — perhaps a moment of reclaiming freedom, healing, or simply enjoying life. However, the red arrow pointing at the water in the background has prompted online speculation. Many fans took it to symbolize what she’s left behind or what’s “missing” from the picture — perhaps even subtly acknowledging Bubbles’ absence.
Bubbles Was More Than Just a Dog
To understand the emotional weight of this decision, you have to understand what Bubbles represented.
Bubbles wasn’t just a pet — she was a constant companion, frequently seen in social media posts, red carpet events, and even magazine spreads. Both Sofía and Joe openly expressed their love for the dog, referring to her as their “baby.” During the height of their marriage, the couple would dress Bubbles in designer outfits, fly her first class, and even include her in anniversary celebrations.
But as the relationship began to unravel, so did their shared responsibilities with Bubbles. Close friends say Joe was the one who bonded more deeply with the dog, especially in the final years of their marriage. “That little dog got him through a lot,” said a mutual friend. “It only made sense that she stay with him.”
Sofía’s Silent Goodbye
While Sofía Vergara hasn’t spoken publicly about the transfer of custody, fans have noticed that Bubbles hasn’t appeared on her Instagram for several months — a noticeable absence, given how frequently she used to post about her. Instead, Sofía has been focusing on her career, attending glamorous events, vacationing in Europe, and embracing a new chapter of her life.
Her choice to let Joe keep Bubbles may seem small in the grand scheme of divorce settlements, but those close to the actress say it was one of the most difficult choices she made throughout the entire process.
“She could’ve easily fought for visitation or joint custody,” said one insider. “But instead, she chose peace. She wanted Joe to have the stability and companionship that Bubbles brings.”
Joe Manganiello Reacts
Joe Manganiello, who has kept a relatively low profile since the split, is said to be “grateful and emotional” about Vergara’s gesture. While he has not made any public statements, his recent social media post — a picture of Bubbles resting in his lap with the caption “Home” — spoke volumes.
Friends say Joe has been nesting with the dog in his Los Angeles home, pouring his energy into his career and personal wellness. “Bubbles is the one thing that makes him smile every single day,” said one friend. “She’s helped him heal.”
Fans React
The public has responded with a mix of empathy and admiration for both parties.
On X (formerly Twitter), fans praised Sofía’s maturity:
“Giving up something you love so someone else can be okay — that’s a different level of strength. Respect to Sofía. #Vergara #Manganiello”
Others posted side-by-side images of Sofía and Bubbles from the past, expressing sadness at the end of a chapter. But many also noted that this may have been an act of love — not weakness.
“Letting go is sometimes the kindest thing you can do, even when it breaks your own heart.”
Moving Forward
For both Sofía and Joe, this chapter marks a significant emotional shift. Custody battles — even over pets — can be draining, bitter, and long-lasting. But this quiet, respectful handover has shown that even after heartbreak, compassion and empathy can still exist.
Sofía is now focusing on her role in Netflix’s Griselda, where she plays the notorious Colombian drug queenpin Griselda Blanco. Early buzz says her performance is transformative and may earn her award consideration.
Joe, meanwhile, is diving deeper into his writing and production work, working behind the scenes on graphic novel adaptations and superhero projects. Bubbles, as ever, remains by his side.
A Final Thought
In a world obsessed with drama, betrayal, and scandal, the real story here is one of grace. Sofía Vergara didn’t lose custody. She chose to give it — not out of defeat, but out of love. And that makes her not just a great actress, but a great human.
Sometimes, what we let go of says more about us than what we choose to keep.
And in the end, it’s clear: both Sofía and Joe are trying to move forward — gently, quietly, and with dignity.
