Kerry Valderrama Obituary, Death- The San Antonio film community is in mourning following the loss of a beloved figure, Kerry Valderrama. A multi-talented filmmaker, actor, and the founder of Alamo City Studios, Valderrama passed away on a Tuesday night, as announced by the Alamo City Studios Facebook page. His passing has left a void in the hearts of many who knew him and those whose lives he touched. Kerry Valderrama’s journey into the entertainment industry began while pursuing a master’s degree at the University of Texas at San Antonio. His first feature film, “Garrison,” achieved nationwide release through Phase 4 Films and gained international distribution in over 20 countries. He followed this success with “Sanitarium,” a film that featured notable actors like Robert Englund and Lou Diamond Phillips.
Valderrama’s creative vision extended beyond the silver screen, as he adapted “Sanitarium” into a series of comic books. In addition to his contributions to the world of film, Valderrama was a passionate advocate for growth and equity within the San Antonio film scene. His Alamo City Studios became a hub for local artists, and he provided opportunities for emerging filmmakers to learn, grow, and create. Social media was flooded with remembrance messages, with many expressing their gratitude for his unwavering support.
This past summer, Alamo City Studios hosted a free summer media arts program for junior and senior high school students, exemplifying Valderrama’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers. The UTSA Film/Media program recognized his invaluable contributions, stating that his absence would be felt for years to come. Sam Lerma, a local filmmaker and a close friend of Valderrama, remembered his magnetic personality and his dedication to building the San Antonio film industry from the ground up. Valderrama’s impact extended beyond the film community, as he lobbied for film incentives at the state legislature, spoke at film festivals across Texas, and offered guidance to aspiring filmmakers.
Noah Reyes, who interned at Alamo City Studios, highlighted the profound influence Valderrama had on his life and the lives of many others. Valderrama’s love for San Antonio and its artists left an indelible mark on those who crossed his path. As the community comes to terms with this loss, they will gather to celebrate Kerry Valderrama’s life at Leon Springs First Baptist Church on November 11th. His legacy as a pillar of the San Antonio film community will continue to inspire and shape the future of local filmmaking for generations to come.
