The Rise of Jenna Ortega: From Horror Movie Deaths to Netflix's Wednesday

The Horror Movie Journey

Jenna Ortega's ascent in the world of horror movies has been nothing short of captivating. While many may recognize her as the iconic Wednesday Addams in Netflix's latest series, her foray into the genre began long before her breakout role in 2022.

Jenna Ortega looks angry with blood dripping down the side of her face in Wednesday.

In 2013, Ortega made her mark in the horror scene with a chilling performance in 'Insidious: Chapter 2.' This early exposure to the genre laid the foundation for her future endeavors, setting the stage for a series of spine-tingling roles that would solidify her reputation as a certified Scream Queen.

Jenna Ortega in a scene from X.

The year 2022 proved to be a pivotal moment for Ortega, with appearances in multiple horror films including 'Scream,' 'Studio 666,' 'X,' and 'American Carnage.' While she portrayed the resilient Final Girl in 'Scream,' not all of her characters met a similar fate, adding depth to her portrayal of horror's various faces.

Jenna Ortega as Lorraine Day cries through a broken door in a scene from X.

The Audition Anecdote

An intriguing anecdote from Jenna Ortega's audition for the role of Wednesday sheds light on the unconventional path that led her to the iconic character. During her audition, Ortega still bore the remnants of her gory death scene from the movie 'X,' showcasing her dedication to the craft amidst the eerie makeup and prosthetics.

Jenna Ortega as Lorraine in a promo still for X.

The Zoom meeting with 'Wednesday' director Tim Burton took an unexpected turn as Ortega's appearance, marked by fake blood and a gruesome gash, contrasted with the whimsical nature of the character she was vying to portray. The shared laughter over the surreal circumstances seemed to break the ice, paving the way for Ortega's seamless transition into the role of Wednesday Addams.

Jenna Ortega looking out the doorway in X

The Evolution of Jenna Ortega

While Jenna Ortega's journey through horror movies has been marked by memorable deaths and chilling performances, her evolution as an actress transcends the boundaries of the genre. From surviving the horrors of 'Scream' to embodying the enigmatic Wednesday Addams, Ortega's versatility and commitment to each role have set her apart in the industry.

Mia Goth as Maxine and Jenna Ortega as Lorraine Day in X.

With 'X' and 'Wednesday' streaming on Netflix, audiences can witness Ortega's range as she navigates the dark and whimsical realms of horror. Her ability to balance vulnerability and strength in her characters showcases a depth that resonates with viewers, solidifying her position as a rising star in the world of entertainment.