Jenna Ortega Unveils Darker, More Thrilling ‘Wednesday’ Season 2

As the young star Jenna Ortega continues to captivate audiences with her unique blend of talent and authenticity, her rise to fame is both epic and exhilarating. In a recent cover story for Vanity Fair, written by Michelle Ruiz, Ortega opens up about her whirlwind year ahead of the highly anticipated second season of “Wednesday” and the release of the “Beetlejuice” sequel. Ruiz’s article delves into Ortega’s creative journey, her experiences working with Tim Burton, and what lies ahead for the talented actor.

The Eve of a New Era

On the brink of “Wednesday’s” cultural explosion, the legendary Tim Burton invited Jenna Ortega to his house for a meeting. This casual Hollywood anecdote sets the scene for what would become a significant turning point in Ortega’s career. “Tim pretty much plopped a script in my hand,” Ortega recalls. “And it was Beetlejuice.”

Tim Burton, the gothic mastermind behind classics like “Edward Scissorhands” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” not only directed and executive produced “Wednesday,” but also envisioned Ortega as the lead. Their collaboration has been nothing short of magical, leading to an exciting second season of “Wednesday” and Ortega’s involvement in “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.”

The Unveiling of Wednesday

The first season of “Wednesday” redefined the Addams Family saga, centering on the woeful teenage daughter and resonating deeply with audiences. “The intelligence and wit and confidence that Wednesday has, I think a lot of us wish that we possessed in ourselves,” Ortega theorizes. Her portrayal earned her Golden Globe and SAG nominations, and an Emmy nod for best lead actress in a comedy.

Wednesday’s character is an antidote to tween and teenage insecurity, unapologetically herself and unconcerned with fitting into popular cliques. “She is inspiring because she’s somebody who doesn’t care what anybody else thinks,” Ortega explains. This strong-willed, deadpan Latina has become a new icon, inspiring fans of all ages.

Season Two: Darker and More Intriguing

The upcoming second season of “Wednesday” promises to be even more enthralling. Now a producer on the show, Ortega is deeply involved in shaping its direction. “The feel that we’re going for is a little bit more horror-inspired,” she reveals, citing “The Masque of the Red Death,” a film based on an Edgar Allan Poe story, as an influence.

Ortega hints at new villains, supernatural abilities, and a darker tone for the sophomore season. “We’re doing this thing now where Wednesday just kind of appears. She is a little bit of a jump scare herself.” The season will also delve deeper into the relationship between Wednesday and her mother, Morticia, with Catherine Zeta-Jones and Luis Guzmán being promoted to series regulars.

Navigating Controversies and Changes

The Vanity Fair article also addresses the notable absence of Percy Hynes White from the second season of “Wednesday.” Hynes White, who played Xavier Thorpe, a key character and one-third of Wednesday’s onscreen love triangle, was embroiled in controversy earlier this year. Accusations surfaced on social media, alleging Hynes White of sexual misconduct, which he has denied, calling the claims a “campaign of misinformation.” The show’s creators decided to move forward without Hynes White, leading to significant changes in the upcoming season’s storyline.

Jenna Ortega acknowledges the situation, stating, “Losing Percy has been a weird redirect, but we’re introducing so many different characters that I think it kind of will get lost. Wednesday’s world does feel slightly askew anyway.”

Navigating Fame and Identity

Despite her soaring career, Ortega remains grounded. She describes the sudden idolatry that followed the debut of “Wednesday” as surreal and dissociative. “When people mention my name, it’s almost like my name has been taken from me. Now I just feel like I’m floating and…I’m up for interpretation.”

Ortega is candid about the pressures of fame and the constant scrutiny. “For a long time I was so scared and so thrown off by everything that happened,” she says. Yet, her frankness and authenticity have made her a relatable figure for many fans. “Celebrity is absolutely ridiculous,” she states matter-of-factly.

Embracing the Macabre and Looking Forward

Ortega’s career is marked by her roles in horror and the macabre, from “Scream” to “X,” and now “Wednesday” and “Beetlejuice 2.” Working with Tim Burton has been a dream come true, despite the bizarre nature of fame that accompanies such roles. “I think if anybody were in my shoes and reacted to it in a welcoming manner, there’s something severely wrong with you,” she laughs.

As Ortega continues to navigate her path in Hollywood, she remains focused on the art of acting. “So much of my life has been on set with other people telling you what to wear, what to do, what to say,” she reflects. Now, with her role as a producer on “Wednesday,” she has more control over her creative expression.

The Future Beckons

With the second season of “Wednesday” and “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” on the horizon, Jenna Ortega’s star is undeniably on the rise. She embodies a new kind of heroine for a new generation, one that is dark, witty, and unapologetically herself. As she steps out into the light from the shadows of her macabre roles, Ortega is poised to leave an indelible mark on Hollywood.

For more updates and exclusive insights into the Wednesday Season 2, stay tuned to our blog and follow us on social media.