Demi Lovato has publicly addressed her past relationship with actor Wilmer Valderrama, describing it as 'not ok' in a candid new interview. The American singer, now 33, began dating Valderrama when she was just 18 years old, while he was 29 at the time. The couple dated for six years before parting ways in 2016.
Reflecting on a Problematic Past
During a recent appearance on Keke Palmer's 'Baby, This Is Keke Palmer' podcast, Lovato joined the conversation about relationships that former child stars had during their teenage years. Both women shared their experiences of dating older men when they were young, with Palmer noting she dated a 20-year-old boyfriend at age 15.
'When I turned 30, I was like, that's not OK,' Lovato revealed about her relationship with Valderrama. 'You look back in hindsight and realize things weren't appropriate.'
A Shared Experience of Exploitation
Palmer echoed these sentiments, describing the moment of realization as potentially causing 'a mental break' when you understand you were 'taken advantage of' or 'exploited.' She explained how as a teenager working in adult environments, such relationships seemed normal at the time.
Lovato agreed, adding, 'Especially if you're an older soul, too. Especially if you're mature for your age.' The singer has previously addressed this age gap in her music, releasing a single titled '29' in 2022 about reaching the age her ex-boyfriend was when they began dating.
From Child Star to Music Icon
Lovato's career began as a child star on Barney & Friends before she rose to fame through the Camp Rock films alongside the Jonas Brothers. Her debut album 'Don't Forget' launched in 2008, followed by eight additional albums. Beyond music, she has served as a judge on The X Factor and been the subject of three documentaries detailing her struggles with eating disorders, substance abuse, and self-harm.
Wilmer Valderrama's Relationship History
Valderrama, known for his role on That 70s Show, had previously dated Mandy Moore when she was 15 and he was 19. That relationship lasted approximately two years. He later dated Lindsay Lohan when she was 18 and he was 24 for about six months.
After his breakup with Lovato, Valderrama became engaged to Amanda Pacheco in 2020, and the couple has since welcomed two children together. Despite their separation, Lovato has maintained she's on good terms with her ex, who supported her following a drug overdose in 2018.
Moving Forward Personally and Professionally
Lovato is now married to songwriter Jordan 'Jutes' Lutes, with the couple tying the knot in May of last year. Professionally, she recently released her 'It's Not That Deep' album and is preparing for an upcoming tour.
However, last month she announced the cancellation of five concerts to allow herself more time to 'rest and rehearse.' In a statement to fans, she explained she had 'overextended' herself and needed to 'protect my health' to ensure she could deliver quality performances throughout the tour.
The revised tour schedule now runs from April 13 to May 12, covering 17 U.S. cities plus a show in Toronto, concluding in Houston, Texas. This adjustment reflects Lovato's continued commitment to balancing her demanding career with personal wellbeing as she navigates life in the public eye.
