Since the explosive debut of Tim Burton’s Netflix series, Wednesday, many fans have been asking: How old is Jenna Ortega, who brilliantly brought the character of Wednesday Addams to life? Despite assuming a complex and memorable role once embodied by seasoned actors, Ortega is surprisingly just 21. And her impressive performance in the series is not a fluke; instead, it’s a testament to her over a decade of experience in the entertainment industry.
Let’s delve deeper into how Ortega, born September 27, 2002, embarked on her journey in the showbiz world at such a young age. She landed her first roles in Iron Man 3 and Insidious: Chapter 2 when she was only six. Not long after, she captivated audiences with her portrayal of young Jane in Jane The Virgin.
Ortega’s career took a notable turn when she secured a starring role in Disney’s Stuck in the Middle. Participating in this show showcased her acting prowess and led her to attend a “Disney Prom,” as shared in her chat with Jimmy Kimmel. Interestingly, this early involvement with Disney set the stage for her rise as a young icon.
Subsequently, Ortega built on her growing resume with appearances in the latest Scream revival and starring roles in 2021’s The Fallout and You. It’s astonishing and inspiring how, at just 21, the same age as many college students, Ortega has already navigated the acting landscape with such finesse. Let’s pause here while we explore Jenna’s rise to prominence through her recent breakout role in Wednesday, where she encapsulates the essence of the beloved yet complex character, Wednesday Addams.
Acting on Wednesday gave Ortega a prominent platform that revealed her talent to a broader audience. Addams, a sad yet riveting character, is infamous for her unblinking gaze and deadpan humor, elements which Ortega has mastered. The show’s success has undeniably played a part in multiplying Ortega’s fanbase. In just ten days, she gained over 10 million Instagram followers, thus escalating her status from a well-known child actor to a rising Gen Z star.
But Jenna Ortega’s journey isn’t solely defined by her roles or popularity on social media. Another essential note to her narrative is her ability to form relationships with famous figures within the industry. She is known to be friends with Maddie Zeigler, who co-starred with her in The Fallout, and she has described their bond as being “the same person in different fonts.” Add pop sensations Olivia Rodrigo and Conan Gray to the mix, and you have an idea of the youthful, creative melting pot in which Ortega flourishes.
Considering how old Jenna Ortega is, seeing how much she’s accomplished is inspiring. And after stealing the scene on Wednesday, it’s apparent that she’s not going anywhere. Jenna Ortega is just at the threshold of her career, and it’s already skyrocketing. Her achievements serve as a beacon for her generation and demonstrate the effect of hard work, tenacity, and passion for the craft. There is immeasurable potential in what the future holds for Ortega, who has shown herself to be both a talented actress and a poised and influential figure, both on and off-screen.
