Before joining American Latino, Vivacious beauty Valery Ortiz turned up the heat and heads as popular cheerleader Madison Duarte on the groundbreaking N network series SOUTH OF NOWHERE. She has also guest starred on numerous TV shows including TWO AND A HALF MEN, MELISSA & JOEY, GIGANTIC, and COLD CASE.

On the big screen, Valery hilariously spoofed Jennifer Lopez as “Jell-O” in the box office blockbuster comedy DATE MOVIE.

Currently, Valery plays the award nominated role of Lupe Ramirez on Robert Townsend’s award-winning Web series DIARY OF A SINGLE MOM, now in its third season. Valery also hosts ABC FAMILY LOUNGE – interstitials that play during the ABC Family network’s flagship series PRETTY LITTLE LIARS.

Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Valery grew up in Orlando, Florida. An early love of dancing led to major roles in local theater productions. Her passion and talent eventually brought her to Los Angeles, where she immediately found success hosting a local television program. Other acting and hosting opportunities quickly followed. Along the way, Valery was named one of Maxim Espanol’s 50 Most Beautiful People and has garnered respect in the industry as a dedicated professional whose exquisite exterior is rivaled only by her inner beauty.

When not working, Valery lends her time to organizations that include Los Angeles Mission, Special Needs Network, Inc. for Autistic Kids, and Eva Longoria’s Padres Contra El Cancer. She also serves as a Celebrity Ambassador for the Best Friends Animal Society Organization.