Wednesday’s Jenna Ortega says she was “scared s***less” when show started: “I didn’t know what I was doing”

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Jenna Ortega recollects vividly her emotions leading up to the debut of Wednesday, the first season of Tim Burton’s Netflix reboot of the Addams Family series, where she portrays the main character Wednesday, a smart but melancholic teenager with psychic abilities, an overcast disposition, a reservoir of cutting remarks, and an almost murderous contempt for humanity. Alas, her fate is tragic.

In a more appealing manner, Ortega adjusts his statement. “What I actually meant was that it’s exhilarating,” he clarifies. “I thrive on the opportunity to dive deep into a project and commit fully to it.

On Wednesday, Ortega poured all her efforts into the role. She aimed to portray the character authentically, she mentions. Consequently, her preparation was thorough and meticulous. In a rather captivating manner, she likens it to a quest to discover the character, as if Wednesday were lost in a forest somewhere. Interestingly, this journey started with Buster Keaton and involved numerous attempts and adjustments.

Ortega states that since much of Wednesday’s speech is internal, he spent a lot of time watching silent films where the actors conveyed stories through their eyes. As Wednesday isn’t allowed to express herself freely, Ortega chose Buster Keaton, who was famously known for his subtle, or ‘deadpan’, acting style.

Afterward, she delved into understanding the physical attributes of Wednesday. “A significant part of the process was dedicating as much time as possible outside of work to embody her physically. This included learning to walk with teacups on one’s head, avoiding excessive arm swinging (since it makes you feel foolish for some reason), minimizing blinking (as it feels like a display of weakness and she doesn’t want to be taken by surprise), and enduring the discomfort of being stared at because that’s what Wednesday represents – intimidating and uncomfortable.” She added, “Wednesday is such a unique character; she seems to embrace you, but getting into her character required a great deal of effort.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but admire Ortega’s dedication and meticulousness. Intrigued by Wednesday’s German phrases in one episode, Ortega took it upon himself to learn the language. Impressed by Wednesday’s cello playing skills, Ortega even picked up the instrument and mastered it. No easy routes or magic tricks were taken. And just like Wednesday, Ortega gave his all when it came to learning new skills, never shying away from a challenge.

In an unexpected turn of events, Ortega’s investment proved fruitful. Despite Wednesday (the character) not being someone you’d typically associate with joy, Ortega’s performance has made her the most-watched English-language TV actress worldwide. With 252 million views on Netflix, she trails only behind the first season of Squid Game (265 million) in Netflix’s global, multilingual, all-time top ten. Though the reserved Californian might shy away from such accolades and even appears uncomfortable when the topic is brought up, the success of Wednesday has placed her in this esteemed position, a title she acquired in November 2022 when Netflix released the first season and it garnered over a billion viewing hours in just one month.

Considering merchandise featuring her likeness, Halloween costumes imitating her character, internet memes inspired by her witty one-liners on Wednesday, countless viral videos of a unique dance routine (viewed billions of times), and numerous posts on YouTube and TikTok, it’s clear that Wednesday, and thus Ortega, was omnipresent. Despite already having established herself prior to Wednesday – starting her acting career at nine, starring in a Disney Channel sitcom at 13, and transitioning from child actor mainly through horror movie roles – she could not have anticipated this sudden surge into global stardom.

Occasionally, Ortega is struck by the enormity of life’s situations, as suggested by the worried expression on her face and her words, “it’s truly terrifying and overpowering.

Ortega goes to great lengths to express her “deep sense of appreciation” towards the success of the show. “We’ve invested a lot of time and energy into this project, and it’s incredibly fortunate and an immense honor for us that people find a connection with it.

I’ve found the past couple of years quite demanding. To be honest, I might have gotten stuck in my thoughts and perhaps was a bit too apprehensive about stepping out of my comfort zone. Red carpet events seem surreal and quite unfamiliar to me, and the question “Who are you wearing?” feels rather peculiar.

She ponders that she avoids spending too much time there as it’s unnatural for humans and not part of our intended experience. So, she steps back. It’s essential to admire things, but not get lost in them. She strives to remain engaged in her daily life.

The truth is that Ortega is most comfortable on set. Being at work is her safe place.

She explains that as a professional, one must learn to take the lead on set and be listed first on the call sheet. To do this effectively, she emphasizes the importance of fostering an atmosphere where everyone feels valued, listened to, and empowered. She is confident in her ability to establish a positive work environment and ensure everyone experiences it.

Despite the abundant influence, authority, and advantage that has come her way, Ortega manages it all commendably. She attributes her ability to remain humble to her family upbringing. It took her three years to convince her parents – her mother Natalie, an ER nurse, and her father Edward, a sheriff – to agree to her pursuing acting as a career.

Among us are six siblings, each pursuing unique professions. I alone follow this path. Visiting home, I’m reminded of my origins as I’m surrounded by such warm and loving family members.

Speaking of her fictional family, what’s it like collaborating with Catherine Zeta-Jones and Joanna Lumley? Ortega’s eyes sparkle. “I’ve been fortunate enough to work with some of the most elegant, kind-hearted individuals I’ve ever encountered. And let me tell you, they are exceptionally gifted! This season, I was particularly grateful for more shared scenes with Catherine. Of course, Morticia is such an alluring character, and Catherine brings such a delightful voice and presence to the role that it made my time on set even sweeter.

Joanna Lumley, as we’re well aware, isn’t merely a national gem but a global one. She’s strikingly beautiful and embodies all that you imagined her to be. When she addresses you affectionately with ‘darling,’ it’s like melting into a puddle. The experience was simply fantastic! Working alongside two powerful, radiant women, where we each portrayed strong, obstinate characters, was an absolute joy. It’s the kind of creative atmosphere I thrive in.”

This version maintains the original sentiment while using more natural and easy-to-read language.

Absolutely! In my opinion, Wednesday is not just a show but a powerful platform for feminism. The female characters in the series are exceptionally strong, and I’m particularly proud of this aspect. Even beyond the Addams family, characters like Enid and Bianca from Wednesday’s high school peers are intriguingly complex and multi-dimensional. I believe there’s a relatable woman for everyone in this show.

Regarding returning to my character for the upcoming second season, I found it – whether simple or challenging – following the quest for Wednesday in the previous season.

Ortega finds it heartwarming to return to a character who holds great significance for both him and countless others,” he remarks. Regarding the challenge of embodying Wednesday’s appearance, Ortega states, “By now, it feels like second nature.

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2025-07-29 02:46