Surprising Facts About Wilmer Valderrama from NCIS
Wilmer Valderrama, known for his role as Special Agent Nick Torres on NCIS, has had a diverse and fascinating career, both on and off the screen. While many fans may know him from his breakout role as Fez on That ‘70s Show, there are several surprising facts about Valderrama that even his biggest supporters might not be aware of. From his impressive work outside of acting to his personal journey, here are some shocking and inspiring facts about Wilmer Valderrama.
1. His Real-Life Work with the USO Influences His NCIS Role
Before he ever joined the cast of NCIS, Valderrama had spent years working closely with the USO, an organization dedicated to supporting members of the U.S. military. His work as a USO Global Ambassador has seen him travel around the world, visiting troops and gaining firsthand insight into the lives of servicemen and women. When Valderrama was later cast as Special Agent Nick Torres, he was able to bring that experience to his role, giving his portrayal an authenticity rooted in his own understanding of military service.
Valderrama has spoken about how much this work has meant to him and how it shaped his performance. His ongoing commitment to the USO aligns with the themes of honor and service that are central to NCIS, making him a natural fit for the show.
2. Valderrama’s Cultural Heritage Plays a Major Role in His Life
Born in Miami to Colombian and Venezuelan parents, Valderrama’s cultural heritage has had a strong influence on his personal and professional life. Raised in Venezuela until he was 14, Wilmer and his family moved to Los Angeles in pursuit of the American dream. Though he initially didn’t speak English when he moved to the U.S., Valderrama worked hard to learn the language, a challenge that would ultimately prepare him for a successful career in Hollywood.
He has used his platform to advocate for greater diversity and representation in the entertainment industry, frequently speaking out about the importance of showcasing authentic Latinx stories. Valderrama is proud of his roots, and his heritage informs much of the charitable work he does, particularly his advocacy for immigrants.
3. He Was Nearly Typecast as Fez After That ‘70s Show
Valderrama became a household name for his role as Fez on That ‘70s Show, the quirky foreign exchange student whose comedic timing and unique personality made him a fan favorite. However, the success of that role came with its own challenges. Valderrama has shared that after the show ended, he struggled to break free from being typecast as Fez, with many producers and directors only seeing him as a comedic actor.
Determined to avoid being pigeonholed, Valderrama took on a variety of different roles to prove his versatility as an actor. From serious dramas to action-packed roles, he showcased his range in films like From Prada to Nada and shows like Minority Report before landing his role on NCIS. His portrayal of Nick Torres helped solidify his place as a leading man in the drama genre, allowing him to redefine his career beyond That ‘70s Show.
4. He’s Also a Successful Producer
In addition to his acting career, Valderrama is also a talented producer. He co-founded the production company WV Entertainment, which focuses on creating content that tells diverse and impactful stories. His company has produced a variety of television projects and films, many of which aim to uplift marginalized voices and provide a platform for underrepresented communities.
One of his most notable projects is The Hollywood Puppet Show, a comedic series that featured real celebrity stories told through the use of puppets. Through WV Entertainment, Valderrama is able to have creative control over the stories he helps bring to life, further expanding his influence in Hollywood.
5. He’s a Vocal Advocate for Veterans and Immigrants
In addition to his work with the USO, Valderrama is also a passionate advocate for veterans and immigrant communities. As someone who is both an immigrant and has spent years supporting the U.S. military, he has a unique perspective on the intersection of these two worlds.
Valderrama often speaks publicly about the positive contributions immigrants make to the U.S. and uses his platform to shift the narrative around immigration. He has been involved in several campaigns aimed at increasing awareness of immigration issues and promoting policies that support immigrant rights. His advocacy work extends to veterans, where he continues to push for better resources and recognition for those who have served.
6. He’s a Family Man
Despite his busy schedule, Valderrama remains incredibly close to his family. His parents play a significant role in his life, and he’s spoken openly about the sacrifices they made to give him a shot at success in the U.S. In fact, Valderrama is so devoted to his family that his parents live with him on his estate, keeping them closely involved in his life.
In 2021, Valderrama welcomed his first child with fiancée Amanda Pacheco, further cementing his role as a family man. He often shares sweet glimpses of his family life on social media, showing fans that despite his fame, his family is his top priority.
7. He’s Involved in Charity Work Beyond the USO
Beyond his involvement with the USO, Valderrama is committed to numerous other charitable causes. He’s partnered with organizations like Voto Latino, which encourages young Latinx voters to participate in elections, and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, where he’s made several visits to brighten the days of young patients.
His philanthropic efforts demonstrate his deep commitment to giving back, using his fame and resources to make a positive difference in the world. Whether it’s advocating for military members, immigrants, or the next generation of voters, Valderrama is dedicated to using his platform for good.
Wilmer Valderrama’s career goes far beyond his work on NCIS. From his advocacy for veterans and immigrants to his efforts to promote diversity in Hollywood, Valderrama is not only an actor but a producer, philanthropist, and family man. His journey from an immigrant learning English to a household name in Hollywood is inspiring, and his commitment to using his platform for positive change makes him a standout figure both on and off the screen.
