Responding to PEOPLE's Instagram, Winter made clear Benward remains a close friend, praising him as a good person and noting they will continue co-parenting their dogs. She emphasized appreciation for their shared years and the friendship that endures.
Longtime friends before romance, they produced and starred in the pandemic-made film Don't Log Off and were last seen together at its July 2025 screening. Winter has previously described the shift from friends to partners as unexpected but ultimately a blessing, calling him her safe space.