Early Life and Foundations
Born in Miami, Florida, on January 30, 1980, to Colombian and Venezuelan parents, Wilmer Valderrama's early life shaped his perspective. Moving to Venezuela at age three and returning to the U.S. at fourteen meant confronting the challenge of learning English. This experience forged a resilience and adaptability crucial for his future acting career. He honed his craft in school plays before landing professional roles in commercials and television.
'That '70s Show': The Breakout Role
Valderrama achieved stardom in 1998 as Fez on the beloved sitcom 'That '70s Show.' His portrayal of the charmingly eccentric foreign exchange student quickly cemented his status as a fan favorite and a pop culture fixture. The show's phenomenal success served as his launchpad into Hollywood, showcasing his sharp comedic timing and providing fertile ground for his growth as an actor across eight seasons.
Expanding Horizons: Drama, Voice Acting, and Production
Eager to avoid typecasting, Valderrama actively sought roles that showcased his versatility. He took on dramatic parts in films like Richard Linklater's 'Fast Food Nation' and the Tom Hanks-directed 'Larry Crowne.' He also established himself as a successful voice actor, notably lending his voice to the title character in Disney's 'Handy Manny.' Furthermore, through his production company, WV Entertainment, Valderrama champions diverse stories and develops projects across various platforms, cementing his role behind the camera.
NCIS: Stepping into the Role of Nick Torres
In 2016, Valderrama embraced a new challenge by joining the cast of the globally popular drama 'NCIS' as Special Agent Nick Torres. This role marked a significant career evolution, allowing him to delve into a complex, action-oriented character within a high-stakes procedural. Torres, a former deep-cover agent with a volatile edge, brought a fresh dynamic to the established team and resonated strongly with audiences, proving Valderrama's capability as a compelling dramatic lead.
Continued Impact and Advocacy
Wilmer Valderrama remains a dynamic force in entertainment. Alongside his demanding role on 'NCIS,' he delighted fans by reprising his role as Fez in the Netflix sequel 'That '90s Show,' bridging generations of viewers. He is also deeply committed to philanthropy and advocacy, notably through his longtime involvement with the USO, supporting U.S. service members, and his work with organizations like Voto Latino, promoting civic engagement. Valderrama consistently uses his platform to effect positive change.
Personal Life
Off-screen, Wilmer Valderrama shares his life with fiancée Amanda Pacheco. The couple welcomed their daughter, Nakano Oceana, in February 2021. Often sharing glimpses of his family life, he balances his demanding career with a clear dedication to his loved ones.