Jenna Ortega has become one of the most talked-about celebrities today, captivating audiences with her talent, charm, and undeniable on-screen presence. Whether you know her as Wednesday Addams in Netflix’s hit series Wednesday or from her work in critically acclaimed movies, Jenna has showcased versatility that’s hard to ignore. But beyond her roles and red-carpet appearances, there’s so much more to this rising star.
Here are 10 surprising facts about Jenna Ortega that will leave even her biggest fans wanting to know more.
1. She started acting at a very young age
Jenna Ortega’s acting career kicked off when she was just nine years old. Her big break came when she landed a role in the television series Rob in 2012. From there, her talents quickly gained attention, leading her to appear in projects like Iron Man 3 and Insidious Chapter 2. Talk about starting big in Hollywood!
2. She’s of Mexican and Puerto Rican heritage
One of the aspects that makes Jenna Ortega so special is her strong connection to her Hispanic roots. Jenna’s mother is of Mexican descent, while her father has Puerto Rican ancestry. Jenna has occasionally spoken out about the importance of representing the Latinx community in Hollywood and breaking stereotypes to pave the way for more inclusive storytelling.
3. Jenna is a published author
This multi-talented star doesn’t just act; she writes too. Jenna released her debut book, It’s All Love, in January 2021. The book is a mix of personal anecdotes, uplifting messages, and reflections on mental health and self-love. It offers fans an intimate look into her thoughts and experiences, proving that Jenna is wise beyond her years.
4. She almost didn’t audition for Wednesday
Funny to think that Jenna Ortega almost didn’t play the iconic role of Wednesday Addams in the Netflix series! According to her, she was hesitant to accept the audition request because she was beginning to focus more on film roles. Luckily for fans, Jenna decided to give it a shot, and the rest is streaming history. She brought a unique dark charm to the role, earning her Golden Globe and Critics’ Choice nominations.
5. She performed Wednesday’s viral dance herself
The now-legendary dance scene in Wednesday was entirely choreographed by Jenna Ortega herself. Inspired by goth movements from the 1980s and old clips of dancers from the past, Jenna created an unforgettable performance that took the internet by storm. From TikTok trends to global memes, that dance solidified her status as a pop culture icon.
6. Jenna advocates fiercely for mental health awareness
Jenna Ortega is more than just an actress; she’s a vocal advocate for mental health awareness. She’s partnered with various organizations like National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to encourage open conversations about mental health challenges and to reduce stigma. Sharing her own experiences, Jenna has inspired countless fans to prioritize self-care and seek help when needed.
7. Her fashion game is next-level
From gothic-inspired Met Gala looks to edgy, high-fashion editorial spreads, Jenna Ortega has quickly established herself as a fashion darling. Working closely with world-class designers like Saint Laurent and Valentino, she’s become a style icon for young audiences everywhere. Her ability to seamlessly blend dark elegance with modern trends is one of the reasons her appearances are always highly anticipated at major events.
8. Acting helped her overcome shyness
Despite her confident on-screen persona, Jenna Ortega admits she was a shy and introverted child. Acting gave her a creative outlet to channel her emotions and step outside her comfort zone. Over time, it helped her develop the confidence she’s now known for. Her story is a testament to the power of finding your passion and letting it help you grow.
9. Horror movies are her thing
One quick look at Jenna Ortega’s filmography, and you’ll notice her love for horror. She’s starred in some unforgettable thrillers like Scream (2022), X (2022), and The Babysitter: Killer Queen. She’s even earned the title “Scream Queen” among fans of the genre. If you love edge-of-your-seat thrills, Jenna Ortega’s filmography is worth exploring.
10. She keeps her personal life private
While Jenna Ortega is active on social media and frequently interacts with fans, she is intensely private about her personal life. She avoids revealing too much about her relationships or family to maintain some sense of normalcy in an industry that often lacks it. This balance between openness and privacy helps her stay grounded despite her massive success.
Your Turn to Discover More
Jenna Ortega is truly a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood, balancing blockbuster success with a deep personal connection to her fans. From her incredible talent to her advocacy work, there’s no doubt she’s only beginning to scratch the surface of what she can accomplish.
Are you a fellow fan of Jenna’s work? Drop a comment below about your favorite Jenna Ortega moment or role! And if you’re curious to keep learning about your favorite stars, check out more of our posts about today’s rising and legendary talents.
