Wilmer Valderrama, the longtime fan-favorite on CBS’s NCIS, is creating a stir ahead of the highly anticipated Season 22 finale. In what he calls one of the most “soul-shattering” endings the show has seen in years, Valderrama promises high stakes, emotional turns, and a deeper dive into his character Nick Torres than ever before.
The series, known for blending action, teamwork, and mystery, is taking a new direction with a more emotionally charged narrative. Valderrama, who’s been on the show for nine seasons, says this isn’t just another case — it’s personal.
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Wilmer Valderrama Reflects on His 9-Year Journey
When Wilmer Valderrama joined NCIS in 2016, he was already a household name. Known for his breakout role as Fez in That ’70s Show, Valderrama brought a completely different energy to Special Agent Nick Torres. Torres was introduced as a rule-bending undercover operative with a mysterious past. Over time, he’s grown into a core part of the team — emotionally guarded but deeply loyal.
Speaking about his evolution on the show, Valderrama says, “Torres is no longer just the tough guy. He’s had to open up, take hits emotionally, and let people in. And this finale pushes him like never before.”
Fans who’ve followed Torres from day one will notice key character threads coming full circle. The show’s writers have spent months weaving hints and flashbacks into this season, all leading to what’s now being labeled a “career-defining performance” for Valderrama.
What Makes This Finale Different?
The upcoming episode doesn’t just close a case — it challenges the foundation of Torres’ loyalty and identity. Valderrama hinted that something from Torres’ past will come back to haunt him. For viewers, that means deeper storytelling, fewer procedural tropes, and more unpredictable twists.
What to expect:
- A major cliffhanger that sets up Season 23
- Emotional breakdowns — and possible betrayals
- A new direction for Torres’ character arc
- Closure for unresolved storylines dating back seasons
Valderrama explains, “We’re going to see Torres isolated. When that happens, it reveals the truest part of a person.”
Production Challenges Didn’t Slow Them Down
Despite the massive January wildfires in Southern California that briefly paused shooting, NCIS pushed through with a dedicated cast and crew. Filming resumed after just a week of disruption. According to insider reports, some of the most intense scenes of the season were filmed post-resumption — adding an unexpected layer of urgency and emotion.
Wilmer Valderrama stayed heavily involved during the pause. In fact, it was during this time he collaborated closely with producers to fine-tune Torres’ storyline for the finale.
Wilmer Valderrama: More Than Just an Actor
In addition to his work in front of the camera, Valderrama is becoming a driving creative force in Hollywood. His production company, WV Entertainment, recently signed a first-look deal with CBS Television Studios. This partnership gives him a hand in creating diverse, powerful stories — not just for NCIS, but for broader primetime and streaming audiences.
This move shows how deeply Valderrama is invested in shaping modern storytelling, especially stories that reflect his cultural roots. As a proud advocate for Latino representation, he’s working behind the scenes to amplify new voices.
What Wilmer Valderrama Means to ‘NCIS’
Few actors leave such a visible mark on a long-running series. In nine seasons, Valderrama hasn’t just played a character — he’s become one of the emotional centers of NCIS. His performance has brought vulnerability, strength, and raw human emotion that resonates with millions of viewers.
He’s also taken on a leadership role on set. Newer cast members reportedly look to him as a mentor — much like Torres did when he first joined the team in the storyline.
The Future: Season 23 and Beyond
While CBS has not officially announced details of Season 23, insiders suggest Torres will remain at the center of the action. Valderrama himself has expressed excitement about future storylines and hinted at potential crossover episodes.
There’s also buzz about a spin-off or standalone Torres-centered project. Nothing has been confirmed, but the interest is clearly there — both from fans and network execs.
Fast Facts: Wilmer Valderrama’s Impact on ‘NCIS’
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| First appearance | Season 14, 2016 |
| Character name | Special Agent Nick Torres |
| Notable trait | Former deep-cover operative |
| Signature moments | Emotional interrogation scenes, sacrifice arcs |
| Known for | Intense emotional range and loyalty |
Let’s Recap: Why This Finale Matters
In a world of ever-changing television content, NCIS continues to draw millions. A big part of that is due to Wilmer Valderrama’s emotional investment in the story. This finale, he says, is “not just for the characters. It’s for the fans who’ve stayed on this ride for over 20 years.”
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And with more doors opening for Valderrama as a producer, actor, and creative leader, it’s clear he’s not going anywhere. Whether on NCIS or in new ventures, he remains one of television’s most compelling stars.