Fred Armisen Shares Valuable Lessons Learned from Jenna Ortega on ‘Wednesday’ (Exclusive)
Fred Armisen recently opened up about the insights he gained from working alongside Jenna Ortega on the hit show ‘Wednesday’. The 58-year-old actor, known for his role as Uncle Fester, reflected on his experience during an exclusive interview with PEOPLE at the season 2, Part One London world premiere. Armisen highlighted Ortega’s impact on him, emphasizing her meticulous approach to acting that inspired him to be more attentive as a scene partner.
During the event at Central Hall Westminster, Armisen praised Ortega, 22, for her deep understanding of her character and the script. He commended her ability to grasp the logic behind her role, which encouraged him to elevate his own performance by paying closer attention to details. The SNL alum expressed admiration for Ortega’s dedication and precision, acknowledging her influence on his own craft.
The comedian fondly recalled a memorable moment from behind the scenes of the upcoming season, mentioning a scene set in an insane asylum where artificial rain and lightning effects created a surreal atmosphere. Armisen described the surreal experience of filming in that environment, evoking a sense of wonder akin to that of a child watching television for the first time.
Armisen’s praise for Ortega’s talent and work ethic echoes sentiments shared by other cast members, including Steve Buscemi, who described the actress as “the best” during a previous interview with PEOPLE. Buscemi commended Ortega for her sharp wit, grounded nature, and exceptional acting skills, highlighting her as a remarkable scene partner. The collective admiration for Ortega’s performance underscores her impact on the show and her fellow actors.
The star-studded premiere of ‘Wednesday’ season 2 in London drew attention from fans and industry insiders alike, with appearances by Ortega, Buscemi, Emma Myers, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Joy Sunday, Tim Burton, and more. The event served as a testament to the show’s growing popularity and the talented ensemble bringing its characters to life on screen.
Christina Ricci, who portrayed Wednesday Addams in the original Tim Burton films and made a cameo in season 1 of ‘Wednesday’ as Marilyn Thornhill, also lauded Ortega’s portrayal of the iconic character. In a previous interview with Variety, Ricci commended Ortega’s modern interpretation of Wednesday, praising the actress for capturing the essence of the role with a fresh perspective.
As fans eagerly anticipate the premiere of ‘Wednesday’ season 2, Part One on Netflix on August 6, followed by Part Two on September 3, the cast’s glowing reviews of Ortega’s performance only add to the excitement surrounding the show. With its unique blend of talent and storytelling, ‘Wednesday’ continues to captivate audiences and establish itself as a must-watch series on the streaming platform.