Jenna Ortega Shares Challenges of Playing Wednesday Addams in Netflix Series
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Jenna Ortega, known for her role in the Netflix series “Wednesday,” recently opened up about the difficulties she has faced while playing the iconic character. In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar, Ortega revealed that portraying a teenager as an adult actress comes with its challenges, particularly when it comes to public perception and being patronized.
The 22-year-old actress expressed that while playing Wednesday Addams has been fulfilling in many ways, there have been downsides to the role. She discussed how her personal style has evolved to align with the character’s Gothic preferences, even though she was previously more associated with a bubbly and sweet image during her Disney days.
Ortega also shared that taking on the role of Wednesday Addams has allowed her to acquire new skills such as playing the cello, the synth, and learning how to fence. Despite these positive aspects, she highlighted the struggle of feeling infantilized as an adult portraying a teenage character for an extended period.
The actress elaborated on the challenges she and her co-star Natalie Portman, who stars in the upcoming movie “The Gallerist,” face due to their petite stature. Portman echoed similar sentiments about being perceived as childish in the industry and the importance of maintaining a serious persona to combat these perceptions.
Ortega empathized with Portman’s experiences, expressing her frustration at not being taken seriously and feeling patronized, especially when dressed in the schoolgirl costume for her role. She also mentioned the physical aspect of being short and how it contributes to feeling overlooked and underestimated in professional settings.
Despite the hurdles she has faced, Ortega revealed that embracing a producer role on “Wednesday” has been empowering for her. The shift in the show’s production from Bucharest to Dublin has also brought about positive changes, providing her with a supportive environment and enriching experiences on set.
Looking ahead to the upcoming season of “Wednesday,” Ortega teased that viewers can expect a bigger, bolder, and darker storyline. She expressed her enthusiasm for the show’s evolution and reflected on the joy of filming in Dublin, praising the camaraderie among the cast and crew.
In a separate interview with The Weeknd for V Magazine, Ortega discussed the impact of her role in “Wednesday” on her career and personal life. She acknowledged the loss of anonymity that came with the show’s success but expressed gratitude for the opportunities it has brought her.
As Ortega continues to navigate the challenges and triumphs of portraying Wednesday Addams, she remains resilient and committed to her craft. Her candid reflections shed light on the complexities of balancing personal growth and professional development in the entertainment industry.
In conclusion, Jenna Ortega’s candid revelations about her experiences playing Wednesday Addams offer a glimpse into the complexities of transitioning from child roles to more mature characters in the spotlight. Despite the hurdles she faces, Ortega’s resilience and passion for her craft continue to shine through, inspiring fans and fellow actors alike.