Sofia Vergara has been named as the highest-paid actress in television, thanks to her role in hit US sitcom Modern Family - and several endorsement deals.

The 40-year-old has topped a rich-list produced by Forbes, with her earnings estimated at £12.1m in the year to May 2012.

She was narrowly ahead of reality TV queen Kim Kardashian, who is thought to have made £11.4m over the same period.

The Colombian actress and TV presenter has seen her career blossom in recent years - having previously been known mainly for her modelling work, which earned her the nickname "Sofia Viagra".

As well as her role as Gloria Delgado-Pritchett, she has also been a spokeswoman for Diet Pepsi, Cover Girl and Kmart.

Eva Longoria was third on the list with a pay packet of £9.5m, while Bethenny Frankel was fourth with £7.6m and Khloe Kardashian was fifth with £7m.