Jenna Ortega Is ‘Confused’ by Success of “Wednesday” After Doubting Season 1

**Jenna Ortega Reflects on the Surprising Success of Netflix’s *Wednesday***

Jenna Ortega, the 24-year-old actress who brought the character of Wednesday Addams to life in Tim Burton’s series *Wednesday*, has opened up about her initial reactions to the show, revealing a sense of disbelief at its massive success. In an episode of the *Happy Sad Confused* podcast, Ortega recounted her experiences during the production of the first season, stating that she felt “very stressed out” and had lingering doubts about the show’s potential. Her concerns stand in stark contrast to the series’ prevailing success, which has positioned it as Netflix’s most-watched English-language offering with over 252 million views.

Reflecting on her first encounters with the show, Ortega revealed that she struggled to watch the initial episodes before the series’ premiere and was “mortified” by what she viewed. “I couldn’t believe it. I really couldn’t believe it,” she shared, expressing her astonishment when audiences began to enthusiastically embrace the show. Her surprise was apparent as she described the feel of the reaction being akin to a “sick mind game that the world was playing.”

Ortega’s initial experiences during the making of *Wednesday* were complicated by her attempts to connect with Tim Burton, the series’ executive producer and director. She noted the director’s notoriously shy nature, which posed a challenge, particularly as she had not previously worked with someone of his stature. “Tim is very, very shy. He does not speak,” Ortega said, implying that forming a rapport with him was initially difficult. This struggle added to her feelings of stress during filming.

Despite any early uncertainties, Ortega’s portrayal of Wednesday has since transformed her acting career. However, she has expressed nostalgia for the anonymity she enjoyed prior to the show’s runaway success. In an interview with *V Magazine*, she remarked on the pressure that fame brings, implying that she misses the days when she could pursue her craft with less scrutiny. “It was so nice to have had way less pressure,” she recalled wistfully.

Reflecting on her earlier experiences in the industry, Ortega described the excitement of auditioning and the unique challenges it brought. Engaging in a relentless pursuit for roles, she recounted memories of “sleeping in cars” and driving all over Los Angeles in hopes of landing jobs. “The adrenaline rush of it all was so exciting,” she affirmed, indicating that the struggle was very much a part of her journey.

Recognition from peers in the industry has been an uplifting aspect of her career’s growth. Veteran co-stars have commended Ortega for her dedication to her role in *Wednesday*. Fred Armisen lauded her meticulous approach, saying, “It’s great watching Jenna because she keeps track of the script in this way that she understands the logic of her character.” Such acknowledgment from seasoned actors not only speaks volumes about her talent but also highlights her commitment to her craft.

Additionally, fellow actor Steve Buscemi praised her character’s interpretation and innate charisma, calling Ortega “so sharp and funny and down to earth.” These compliments from accomplished colleagues reflect her evolution as an actress and the profound impact *Wednesday* has had on her professional identity.

As fans eagerly await the upcoming third season of the show, which continues to dominate streaming charts, Ortega finds herself navigating the complexities of newfound fame amidst a successful franchise. With two successful seasons already available for viewers on Netflix, the anticipation for the next instalment underscores the cultural impact that *Wednesday* has had on audiences worldwide.

In summary, Jenna Ortega’s journey through the whirlwind of *Wednesday* exemplifies the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry. From initial anxiety over her performance to becoming an international icon, her experiences resonate with the many artists who aspire to make their mark in film and television. With a promising future ahead, Ortega continues to captivate audiences, securing her place in the spotlight, even as she reflects fondly on the path she has travelled.