Who Is America Ferrera Married To? The Story Behind Her Relationship with Ryan Piers Williams

Who is Ryan Piers Williams?

Ryan Piers Williams is not just known for being the husband of America Ferrera but has established his own mark in the world of filmmaking and art. Williams, born and raised in Texas, obtained his degree in Film Production from the School of Cinematic Arts at the University of Southern California, the same institution where he met Ferrera. Williams is a multifaceted filmmaker, writer, director, and actor, best known for his works like The Dry Land (2010) and X/Y (2014), both of which featured Ferrera in starring roles.

Williams’ work often deals with intense themes, and his directorial debut, the short film Muertas (2007), delves into the ongoing murders of women in Juarez, Mexico, reflecting his strong interest in using art as a tool for raising awareness of social issues. Over the years, Williams and Ferrera have been partners not just in life but in projects that push for change in both art and society.

America ferrera and ryan piers williams' relationship timeline — America ferrera and ryan piers williams’ relationship timeline

How Did America Ferrera and Ryan Piers Williams Meet?

It all began in 2005 when Ryan Piers Williams cast America Ferrera in his short film Muertas, a poignant project that explored the plight of young women and girls in Juarez, Mexico. Williams, fresh out of graduate school, was searching for a lead actress for his film, and Ferrera, still an undergraduate at the University of Southern California, was his top choice. This professional encounter laid the foundation for their personal relationship. Their shared passion for filmmaking and social issues was a major factor that connected them on a deeper level.

In an interview, Williams shared, “I wanted the film Muertas to serve as a call for awareness of the human toll behind the headlines in Juarez. Meeting America at that time was like finding the missing piece of my creative puzzle.”

Who is america ferrera's husband ryan piers williams — Who is america ferrera’s husband ryan piers williams

When Did America Ferrera and Ryan Piers Williams Get Married?

After five years of dating, Ferrera and Williams got engaged in June 2010. They tied the knot on June 27, 2011, in an intimate ceremony at the Chappaqua, New York home of Vanessa Williams, Ferrera’s co-star from Ugly Betty. The wedding was a close-knit affair with family and a few of Ferrera’s industry friends in attendance, including her Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants co-stars Blake Lively, Amber Tamblyn, and Alexis Bledel, as well as Ugly Betty cast members.

Ferrera wore a stunning strapless lace gown by Amsale’s Christos Bridal Collection, complemented by Fred Leighton earrings. The ceremony was officiated by none other than Judith Light, who had become a maternal figure to Ferrera during her time on Ugly Betty. Their wedding wasn’t just a celebration of their love but also a gathering of individuals who had been pivotal in their careers and personal growth.

How Many Children Do America Ferrera and Ryan Piers Williams Have?

The couple has two children. Their first child, a son named Sebastian Piers Williams, was born in May 2018. Ferrera announced his birth on Instagram with the caption, “When 2 becomes 3… Welcome Sebastian Piers Williams – aka Baz! Mom, Dad, and Baby are happy, healthy, and totally in love!” Their daughter, Lucia Marisol Williams, was born on May 4, 2020, with Ferrera sharing the news on Instagram: “Lucia Marisol Williams arrived on May 4th to give me my Mother’s Day hugs and kisses herself. Mama, Dada, & Big Brother are over the moon to welcome her bright light to our family.”

Ferrera and Williams have made a conscious effort to keep their children out of the public eye, rarely posting their pictures and ensuring that their private lives remain shielded from the spotlight.

What Are the Couple’s Collaborative Projects?

Their professional collaborations have been equally notable as their personal ones. Williams has directed Ferrera in several of his projects, including The Dry Land and X/Y. The Dry Land was a critically acclaimed film that delved into the struggles of returning veterans and their experiences with PTSD. Ferrera’s role in the film was highly praised, further solidifying the couple’s professional synergy.

In addition to their work in cinema, Ferrera and Williams co-founded Harness, a nonprofit organization focused on centering the voices and experiences of underrepresented communities. Launched shortly after the 2016 U.S. presidential election, Harness brings together artists, activists, and influencers to engage in meaningful dialogue around social issues. As Ferrera said in an interview with Vogue, “Artists have always been catalysts for social change, and with Harness, we aim to bring those conversations into spaces where they can make the most impact.”

How Do They Maintain Privacy in a Public Life?

Despite their public professions, Ferrera and Williams are deeply committed to maintaining a degree of privacy, especially when it comes to their family life. Ferrera once mentioned in an interview, “Our family is our priority, and we try to keep that space sacred.” The couple rarely makes red-carpet appearances together, and when they do, it is often for significant events such as the Golden Globes or the premiere of Ferrera’s hit film, Barbie.

Williams is also Ferrera’s biggest cheerleader. When she was named Glamour’s Global Woman of the Year in 2023, he took to Instagram to express his pride: “I’m so proud to stand with the Global Woman of the Year! @americaferrera your light brings love and hope to us all. Celebrating you today, tomorrow, and every day thereafter!”

Triathlons and Teamwork: How They Stay Grounded

Ferrera and Williams not only work together in the arts but also challenge each other physically. In 2016, the couple participated in their first triathlon together, an event that Ferrera described as a deeply empowering experience. “With every stroke, pedal, and step, I transformed doubt into belief,” Ferrera said in an interview. The couple’s dedication to each other’s well-being goes beyond emotional and creative support; it extends into their shared commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did America Ferrera meet Ryan Piers Williams?
They met in 2005 at the University of Southern California when Williams cast Ferrera in his short film Muertas.
When did America Ferrera and Ryan Piers Williams get married?
They got married on June 27, 2011, in an intimate ceremony at Vanessa Williams’ home in New York.
How many children do America Ferrera and Ryan Piers Williams have?
They have two children: a son, Sebastian Piers Williams, born in 2018, and a daughter, Lucia Marisol Williams, born in 2020.

What films have America Ferrera and Ryan Piers Williams worked on together?

Did you catch america ferrera’s real husband in barbie

They have worked together on several projects, including The Dry Land and X/Y.