Wilmer Valderrama Made Me Cry (and Dream Big)

A heartfelt reflection on how Wilmer Valderrama's An American Story made me cry, laugh, cry, believe, and cry in the power of chasing dreams, with a personal story of meeting the author.

Image courtesy of @wilmervalderrama (Instagram)

There are books that entertain, books that make you think, and then there are books like "An American Story: Everyone is Invited" by Wilmer Valderrama—books that make you laugh, cry, dream big, and believe. Oh, and did I mention cry again? Wilmer’s storytelling makes every dream and aspiration feel possible; he invites readers to believe and take action with determination and passion, reminding us that this country offers the opportunity to actually reach our dreams.

By the time I finished the book, I felt like I could eat the world in one bite.

Meeting the Human Behind the Story

Maybe it hit me harder because I had the courage to drive down to San Antonio and actually meet Wilmer Valderrama in person during his book tour. Yup, I met him. And not just a quick handshake, photo-op kind of meeting—no, I had a plan. I brought along my most beloved TV series projects I created in a blue, single-pocket plastic folder, hoping to share it with him. I wanted to be the last in line, although, I was thinking maybe he would be too exhausted to hear me out. Little did I know I was about to experience one of the most memorable interactions of my life.

Let me tell you, Wilmer’s team was beyond welcoming. After nearly four hours, they still made sure every person felt special. They even asked how to pronounce your name—because Wilmer wanted to make sure he got it right. How thoughtful is that?

When it was my turn, the staff ushered me in, saying, “Here’s our last guest!” (or something along those lines—I was too nervous to remember exactly). Wilmer smiled at me, and let me tell you, I "needed" that smile to breathe properly again. I shook his hand, but he pulled me in for a friendly hug. Wow. In that moment, my nerves took a back seat, and I somehow found the words to ask him if he preferred English or Spanish. After reading the book, I learned he’s fluent in both, but in that moment, I just wanted to connect.

I said what I’m sure he heard a million times that day: “Thank you for writing this book. It’s a true inspiration.” But for me, it wasn’t just polite praise. I am one of the dreamers he wrote about. Then I brought out my project, "Así es Latinoamérica©", and told him I wanted to exchange it with him. I didn’t go into detail, though now I realize how wrong that was. This was my five-minute pitch! But he promised to look at it and provide feedback, so the clock’s ticking for me.

I left the room floating on air—only to realize I hadn’t even asked him to sign my book. Oops! So, I walked back in and sheepishly said, “Hey, could you sign my book?” We all laughed, and I added, “Wasn’t that the whole point?”

[Spoiler Alert!]

Now, let’s talk about this book. Wilmer Valderrama’s life story is not just relatable, especially for anyone in the entertainment industry—it’s life-changing. I insist, I cried so many times. I cried when he thought he was getting a callback for "That ‘70s Show" but was actually being invited to join the cast permanently. I cried when Johnny Depp said, “What’s the hurry?” I cried when Disney asked him, “How can I help you make this happen?” And don’t even get me started on Amanda’s mother and Nakano’s birthday. The first three pages had me tearing up, and by the time I reached the last chapter—oh God, that Father’s Day story—it hit me so hard. It reminded me of my own father, who also suffered a pre-heart attack years ago. Reading that chapter brought me back to that moment, only now with immense gratitude that my dad is still with us, happy and thriving, thank God.

My Final Thoughts (My Open Letter to Wilmer):

This book is special. Truly special. The author makes things look so possible! And, Wilmer, if you’re reading this—your book should come with a warning label: May cause uncontrollable tears and require waterproof mascara. As I told you when I was fortunate enough to meet you in San Antonio, “It is a true inspiration.” I know that might sound like a cliché, but it’s the truth. In every one of those 242 pages, there was something that reminded me of who I am and what my parents always instilled in me: “There are no limits, Paty!”

Honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if your next role is as the first Latino President of the United States. I’m not joking. Your empathy, professional experience, and journey—along with Fez's charisma, which created so many connections, and Nick Torres' humility and resilience—reflect the qualities that a great leader must have to build a united nation. As I reflect on all the incredible projects, teams, and successes you’ve been a part of, I realize that you are the common denominator in it all. It’s only clear that you are the one who carries the magic.

I’m so grateful I had the chance to share "Así es Latinoamérica©" with you, and after reading your book, I’m even more excited about the possibility of hearing your feedback and one day, working together. No rush—but seriously, I can’t wait!