In his new memoir, An American Story: Everyone’s Invited, Wilmer Valderrama shares intimate details of his life, including his journey from Venezuela to Hollywood and his experiences on the beloved show That ’70s Show. The NCIS star opens up about personal challenges, memorable moments with co-stars, and valuable lessons learned along the way.
The Immigrant Experience
Wilmer’s memoir highlights the challenges he faced as an immigrant. He reflects on his early days in California, emphasizing the determination that fueled his rise in the entertainment industry. His story resonates with many, showcasing the resilience and hope of those who seek a better life in a new country.
A Harrowing Airplane Incident
One of the most gripping anecdotes in the memoir recounts a terrifying plane ride with his That ’70s Show co-stars, including Ashton Kutcher and Danny Masterson. Wilmer describes the flight back to Hollywood from New Orleans after the Super Bowl, which quickly turned chaotic due to a severe winter storm.
As the plane encountered violent turbulence, Wilmer recalls the panic onboard as oxygen masks dropped from the ceiling. “We fumble with our masks. Something is definitely not right with this plane,” he wrote. The moment was filled with tension, as he imagined worst-case scenarios if the plane were to crash. However, he humorously quipped about Ashton’s potential survival instincts, suggesting, “Ashton’s gonna wonder who to eat first. It’s probably gonna be me, because he loves Latin American food.”
Ultimately, when the plane landed safely, the relief was palpable, though the experience left a lasting impression on all aboard.
Wisdom from Johnny Depp
After the airplane scare, Valderrama received advice from fellow actor Johnny Depp, who encouraged him to focus on one character at a time and to “bet on yourself” in his career. This guidance proved invaluable to Wilmer as he navigated his journey in Hollywood.
Friendly Rivalry with Ashton Kutcher
In the memoir, Wilmer also reflects on his relationship with Ashton Kutcher, describing their dynamic as a “friendly rivalry.” He recounts how they would compete for laughs during their performances, each striving to deliver their best work. Wilmer acknowledged Ashton’s intelligence and seriousness about acting, noting that both actors came to set well-prepared to engage the audience.
Conclusion
An American Story: Everyone’s Invited was released on September 17 and offers fans a deeper understanding of Wilmer Valderrama’s life and career. Through humorous and heartfelt stories, he invites readers to share in his journey of perseverance, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams in Hollywood.
