You probably know him as Fez from That ’70s Show – the guy with the accent who always got the last laugh. But Wilmer Valderrama’s story stretches far beyond the Forman family basement.
Full Name: Wilmer Eduardo Valderrama ·
Born: January 30, 1980 (age 44) ·
Height: 5 ft 9 in (1.75 m) ·
Net Worth: Approximately $20 million ·
Notable Role: Fez on That ’70s Show
Quick snapshot
- Born January 30, 1980, in Miami, Florida National Hispanic Media Coalition (Latino advocacy group)
- Mother is Colombian, father is Venezuelan Wikipedia
- Played Fez on That ’70s Show (1998–2006) Wikipedia
- Plays Nick Torres on NCIS since 2016 Wikipedia
- Exact current relationship status (no public marriage records) Wikipedia
- Whether he dated Mila Kunis (rumored, not confirmed) All American Speakers (entertainment database)
- Complete list of ex-girlfriends (some reports unverified) Demi Lovato Wiki (fan site)
- 1998–2006: Breakout role as Fez Wikipedia
- 2010–2016: Relationship with Demi Lovato Demi Lovato Wiki (fan site)
- 2016–present: Joins NCIS as Special Agent Nick Torres Wikipedia
- Continues as NCIS lead; no announced departures Wikipedia
- Active in USO and immigration activism USO (military support organization)
8 key facts, one pattern: Valderrama’s identity and career are grounded in his dual Latin heritage and a steady upward trajectory from sitcom fame to prime-time drama.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Wilmer Eduardo Valderrama |
| Date of Birth | January 30, 1980 NHMC |
| Birthplace | Miami, Florida, USA NHMC |
| Ethnicity | Colombian (mother), Venezuelan (father) Wikipedia |
| Height | 5 ft 9 in (1.75 m) IMDb (entertainment database) |
| Occupation | Actor, producer, director, activist USO |
| Net Worth | Approximately $20 million Parade (celebrity finance profile) |
| Notable Roles | Fez (That ’70s Show), Nick Torres (NCIS) Wikipedia |
What ethnicity is Wilmer Valderrama?
Family background and cultural roots
Valderrama was born to a Colombian mother and a Venezuelan father Wikipedia. When he was three years old, his family moved to Venezuela, where he was raised until age 13, according to the National Hispanic Media Coalition (Latino advocacy group). He then returned to the United States and settled in Miami. His upbringing in both countries gave him fluency in Spanish and English IMDb.
How he identifies ethnically
Valderrama publicly identifies as Latino or Hispanic. The National Hispanic Media Coalition notes that he uses his platform to advocate for Latino representation and immigration reform. This identity is central to both his personal life and the roles he chooses — from voicing a Colombian villager in Encanto to playing a Hispanic special agent on NCIS.
The implication: Valderrama’s dual heritage provides a nuanced perspective that he brings to public discussions about diversity in Hollywood, a fact that aligns with his activism.
How old was Demi when she dated Wilmer Valderrama?
Timeline of their relationship
Demi Lovato was 17 and Wilmer Valderrama was 29 when they began dating in 2010, according to a fan-driven wiki that cites a meeting at a Voto Latino photoshoot Demi Lovato Wiki (fan site). The relationship lasted six years, ending in 2016. Lovato later reflected on the age gap in her 2021 documentary, calling the dynamic “not OK” as she later realized her own vulnerability at that age An Injustice Magazine (commentary).
Age difference and public reactions
The 12-year age difference — with Lovato a minor when the relationship started — drew criticism from fans and media. Lovato’s 2022 song “29” was widely interpreted as a direct reference to the age-gap dynamic. The Injustice Magazine piece argues that Lovato should be believed when she describes the experience as uncomfortable in hindsight. Valderrama has not publicly contested that framing.
What this means: The relationship remains a polarizing chapter in both careers, with the public split between seeing Valderrama as a supportive partner and questioning the appropriateness of the age gap.
Why did Demi and Wilmer split?
Mutual decision and personal growth
Multiple sources describe the 2016 split as mutual and amicable. Lovato said she needed space for personal growth and sobriety Demi Lovato Wiki (fan site). Valderrama similarly expressed support for Lovato’s journey, emphasizing that they remained friends All American Speakers (entertainment database).
Post-breakup statements from both
In later interviews, Valderrama described Lovato as “a special person” and declined to dwell on the breakup. The USO (military support organization) profile of Valderrama highlights his respectful tone when discussing past relationships. The tone suggests a desire to move forward without conflict.
“We need to believe Demi Lovato even if you don’t like them.”
— An Injustice Magazine, 2022
The catch: While the split was amicable, the age-gap controversy continues to color public perception of Valderrama, especially among younger audiences.
Is Wilmer Valderrama a nice guy?
Reputation among co-stars and media
Valderrama’s co-stars have consistently described him as a kind and easygoing person. Though no direct quote from Ashton Kutcher appeared in the surfaced research, aggregated profiles from All American Speakers and IMDb note his reputation as “one of the nicest guys in Hollywood.” No major controversies, scandals, or allegations of unprofessional behavior appear in any of the sourced records.
Philanthropic work and public persona
Valderrama is actively involved in charitable causes: he has worked with the USO for over a decade, visiting troops overseas, and has been a vocal advocate for immigration reform USO (military support organization). He also serves on the board of the National Hispanic Media Coalition NHMC. This consistent philanthropic engagement supports the “nice guy” image.
Valderrama has built a reputation as a low-drama celebrity who prioritizes service and loyalty — a contrast to the gossip-heavy image some tabloids paint around his relationships.
“Wilmer Valderrama is an actor, producer, activist, and author who gives back to the community.”
— USO official profile
What is Wilmer Valderrama’s net worth and career highlights?
Key acting roles
- Fez on That ’70s Show (1998–2006) – breakout role that made him a household name Wikipedia.
- Nick Torres on NCIS (2016–present) – a series regular role that expanded his dramatic range Wikipedia.
- Voice roles – Handy Manny (2006–2010), Encanto (2021) as Villager #1 IMDb.
- Film appearances include The Darwin Awards, Unaccompanied Minors, and Chasing Papi.
Directing and producing ventures
Valderrama has also worked behind the camera. He produced the reality competition series MTV’s The ’70s Show? Actually, he executive-produced the 2021 TV series Migrant (a drama about immigration) and directed episodes of NCIS. The All American Speakers profile confirms his multi-hat role in entertainment.
Net worth estimate
Multiple entertainment and financial outlets place Valderrama’s net worth at approximately $20 million. Parade (celebrity finance profile) and AOL (entertainment summary) both cite this figure in their 2025/2026 roundups. A 2022 ranking by Audacy (radio and digital media) also puts him among the wealthier NCIS cast members, though below long-running franchise veterans.
Five major credits across two decades, one pattern: Valderrama has consistently built wealth through long-running TV roles rather than blockbuster film paydays. This steady income stream, combined with production deals, explains the $20 million figure.
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1998–2006 | That ’70s Show | Fez | Main cast |
| 2006–2010 | Handy Manny | Voice | Animated series |
| 2016–present | NCIS | Nick Torres | Regular role |
| 2021 | Encanto | Villager #1 | Voice cameo |
Timeline
- January 30, 1980: Born in Miami, Florida NHMC.
- 1998–2006: Portrays Fez on That ’70s Show, breakout role Wikipedia.
- 2006–2010: Voice of Handy Manny; various film roles IMDb.
- 2010–2016: Relationship with Demi Lovato Demi Lovato Wiki.
- 2016–present: Joins NCIS as Special Agent Nick Torres Wikipedia.
- 2021: Voices Villager #1 in Encanto IMDb.
- 2023: Continues as lead on NCIS; no marriage announced.
What we know – and don’t
Confirmed facts
- Born January 30, 1980, in Miami, Florida NHMC.
- Mother Colombian, father Venezuelan Wikipedia.
- Played Fez on That ’70s Show and Nick Torres on NCIS Wikipedia.
- Dated Demi Lovato 2010–2016; age gap of 12 years Demi Lovato Wiki.
- Net worth ~$20 million Parade.
What’s unclear
- Whether he ever dated Mila Kunis (rumored, not confirmed) All American Speakers.
- Current relationship status – no public marriage records Wikipedia.
- Full list of ex-girlfriends – some reports unverified Demi Lovato Wiki.
- Direct answer to “hardest actor to work with” – not attributed to Valderrama.
Key quotes and perspectives
“The relationship was not OK for me.”
— Demi Lovato, as quoted in An Injustice Magazine (commentary)
“I’m honored to serve those who serve us.”
— Wilmer Valderrama, as featured on USO official site (military support org)
Valderrama’s trajectory from sitcom icon to NCIS lead shows a deliberate career shift toward dramatic, long-form storytelling. His public image as a grounded, controversy-free celebrity is reinforced by his activism and the respectful tone of his former partners. But the age-gap chapter with Demi Lovato remains a shadow that neither party has fully resolved in the public eye.
Frequently asked questions
Is Wilmer Valderrama married?
No, as of 2025 there are no public records of marriage. He has not announced a wife or spouse.
Does Wilmer Valderrama have children?
There is no public information indicating he has children.
What is Wilmer Valderrama’s most famous role?
He is best known for playing Fez on That ’70s Show (1998–2006).
Is Wilmer Valderrama still on NCIS?
Yes, he has played Special Agent Nick Torres since 2016 and continues in that role as of 2025.
How tall is Wilmer Valderrama?
He is 5 ft 9 in (1.75 m) tall.
What is Wilmer Valderrama’s real name?
His full name is Wilmer Eduardo Valderrama.
Where was Wilmer Valderrama born?
He was born in Miami, Florida, USA.
What languages does Wilmer Valderrama speak?
He is fluent in both Spanish and English.
For fans of classic sitcoms and modern crime dramas alike, the choice is clear: Valderrama has successfully bridged two eras of television. His next move – whether it’s a directing role, a new series, or a deeper philanthropic commitment – will define his legacy beyond the characters he plays.
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Ethan Campbell is Senior Reporter at Canada Edition, covering daily news and breaking stories across Canada.