After Nearly Dying In A Terrifying Plane Incident And Needing A Reset, That ‘70s Show’s Wilmer Valderrama Got Some Great Acting Advice From Johnny Depp

As a gamer who has lived through countless virtual near-death experiences, I can only imagine the real-life terror that Wilmer Valderrama faced during his harrowing plane incident. The fact that he survived and went on to have such an impressive career is nothing short of inspiring.


Wilmer Valderrama’s portrayal of Fez on That ‘70s Show was significant, impactful, and undeniably amusing. Yet, while he was a part of one of the most beloved sitcoms ever made, this Miami native came alarmingly close to death in a harrowing plane accident. Today, Valderrama is sharing insights about that ordeal, his subsequent desire for a fresh start, and how Johnny Depp provided valuable acting guidance that helped him navigate through it.

As a devoted admirer, I’m excitedly sharing that Wilmer Valderrama, an accomplished actor, producer, and Global USO Ambassador, is inviting readers into his life through his new book titled “An American Story: Everyone’s Invited“. In this compelling narrative, he takes us on a journey from his childhood years in Venezuela, revealing how his acting passion became a lifeline for his family in need. He bravely recounts a harrowing plane incident during the early phases of “That ‘70s Show“, and shares how timely advice from Johnny Depp helped him rejuvenate his career.

Wilmer Valderrama’s Near-Death Plane Crash Experience

In an excerpt shared by US Weekly from Wilmer Valderrama’s recent book, he recounted a harrowing incident involving almost losing his life during a flight with Ashton Kutcher, Danny Masterson, Colin Hanks, and others. The group had been traveling on a “compact private aircraft” returning to Hollywood from New Orleans following the Super Bowl. Valderrama described the journey as far from smooth.

Outside, there’s only darkness and freezing rain falling. The plane is bouncing around erratically, moving up, down, and sideways. I feel dizzy, and finding it difficult to catch my breath. I can’t help but wonder if the oxygen masks that have dropped from the ceiling are due to the turbulence or something else.

The captain on board announced that a stuck-shut oxygen valve led to a buildup of carbon monoxide inside the charter plane. In this situation, Wilmer Valderrama and Ashton Kutcher shared one oxygen mask, while they provided an additional mask to Danny Masterson, who reported numbness in his arm.

Luckily, I found myself safe on the ground following an unexpected landing in El Paso. As I waited for my connecting flight, I made a touching phone call to my mom, sharing with her the heartfelt words, “I love you.

Johnny Depp’s Sage Advice for Wilmer Valderrama To ‘Bet On Yourself’

After the distressing accident that ended That ’70s Show in 2006, Wilmer Valderrama decided to take a break from acting. During this period, he traveled extensively and spent time reflecting on his future plans. Eventually, he returned to acting but was selective about the roles he accepted.

Following the unfortunate plane accident, an agent arranged a meeting between the television actor and Johnny Depp, who was filming Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest. This encounter turned out to be inspiring for Valderrama as Depp, playing Sweeney Todd, shared crucial career guidance, suggesting he concentrate on one character at a time and trust in himself.

After our conversation, I find myself pondering this question: What if my life had taken a different course that fateful day on the plane? Ultimately, we all face the reality of mortality, and it’s crucial to prepare for what lies ahead. However, it is equally significant to appreciate and make the most of our present moments.

Wilmer Valderrama sure had great success outside of That ‘70s Show.

He did animation work voicing Manny in the Disney Junior series Handy Manny, Prince Phillipe Charming in the animated film Charming, and Agustín Madrigal in Disney’s Encanto. He’s also been in live-action feature films like Larry Crowne and The Adderall Diaries.

Primarily, Valderrama replaced Michael Weatherly on NCIS during Season 14. Since then, he has held a permanent role in the series for the past seven seasons, and we can expect his return when the show returns for its 22nd season this autumn.

It’s wonderful that Wilmer Valderrama survived the terrible plane accident which came close to claiming his life and those of his companions. Additionally, it’s heartening to learn he had support from individuals like Johnny Depp, offering guidance on navigating life’s challenges ahead. Evidently, these events have played a significant role in shaping his remarkable acting journey.

You’ll have the chance to watch Valderrama reprise his leading role on CBS’s NCIS when it debuts on October 14th in the 2024 TV lineup. Don’t forget to delve deeper into his life and career by picking up his latest book, An American Story: Everyone’s Invited, which is now available on Amazon.

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2024-09-18 21:37