With the momentum of stardom on her side, Jenna Ortega has quickly become one of the most in-demand actresses in Hollywood. Following her breakout success in Netflix’s Wednesday and her role in Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, Ortega is set to expand her career with more high-profile projects.
But long before these headline roles, Ortega built a diverse résumé spanning Disney Channel shows, Netflix hits, horror films, and feature dramas.
Early Career
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Stuck in the Middle (Disney+) – Ortega’s breakthrough came as Harley Diaz, the witty middle child of a large family. The role introduced her charm to young audiences and showcased her comedic timing.
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Jane the Virgin (CW) – She portrayed the younger version of Jane Villanueva, played by Gina Rodriguez, in flashback scenes.
Rising Roles on Netflix
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You (Netflix) – Ortega appeared as Ellie Alves in Season 2, opposite Penn Badgley’s Joe Goldberg, adding depth to the thriller.
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The Babysitter: Killer Queen (2021) – She played Phoebe in this slasher sequel directed by McG.
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Yes Day (2021) – Ortega starred alongside Jennifer Garner and Edgar Ramírez as Katie, the rebellious teen testing her parents’ one-day rule of saying yes.
Acclaimed Performances
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The Fallout (Max, 2021) – Ortega delivered a powerful performance as Vada, a teen navigating grief after a high school tragedy, solidifying her dramatic credentials.
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X (2022) – In Ti West’s horror film, Ortega portrayed Lorraine, one of a group of young filmmakers caught in a deadly night.
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Scream (2022) & Scream VI (2023) – Ortega became the franchise’s new final girl, starring as Tara Carpenter in Paramount’s slasher revival.
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Wednesday & Global Breakthrough
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Wednesday (Netflix, 2022– ) – Ortega transformed the iconic character Wednesday Addams into a cultural phenomenon, earning Emmy and Golden Globe recognition. She also portrayed Goody Addams, Wednesday’s ancestor. Season 2 is currently in production.
Recent & Upcoming Projects
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Miller’s Girl (2024, Netflix) – Played Cairo Sweet opposite Martin Freeman.
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Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024, HBO Max) – Cast as Astrid Deetz, daughter of Lydia (Winona Ryder), continuing Tim Burton’s gothic legacy.
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Death of a Unicorn (A24/HBO Max) – Starred as Ridley alongside Paul Rudd and Will Poulter in a dark fantasy thriller.
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Hurry Up Tomorrow (Lionsgate) – Ortega plays Anima, acting alongside The Weeknd (Abel Tesfaye) and Barry Keoghan.
Why Jenna Ortega Is Hollywood’s Next Big Star
From Disney Channel comedy to A24 dramas and global Netflix hits, Ortega’s career demonstrates versatility across genres. Whether it’s horror, comedy, or drama, her ability to anchor projects with charisma and intensity has made her a generational talent.
With Wednesday Season 2 and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice on the horizon, Jenna Ortega is poised to remain one of the most exciting faces in entertainment.
