ACT

Early Life and Cultural Background

Jenna Marie Ortega was born on September 27, 2002, in Coachella Valley, California. She comes from a rich Mexican and Puerto Rican heritage, which she proudly represents in Hollywood. As the fourth of six siblings, Jenna grew up in a busy household full of love and support. Her parents, Edward and Natalie Ortega, always encouraged her passion for acting, even though they initially had no connections to the entertainment industry.

Discovering a Passion for Acting

Jenna's love for acting began at a young age. By the time she was six, she was already memorizing and performing monologues in front of her family. Recognizing her talent, her mother started recording her performances and sending them to agents. At age nine, Jenna landed her first audition and soon after secured her debut role in the CBS sitcom Rob. From that moment, it was clear that acting was her calling.

The Struggles of a Young Latina Actress

Breaking into Hollywood is never easy, especially for young Latina actresses. Jenna faced numerous challenges, often being told she “wasn’t Latina enough” or “wasn’t white enough” for certain roles. However, she refused to let these obstacles define her. She continued to push forward, determined to prove that Latina actresses deserve leading roles in mainstream media.

Disney Channel Breakthrough - Stuck in the Middle

Jenna’s big break came in 2016 when she landed the lead role of Harley Diaz in Disney Channel’s Stuck in the Middle. The show followed the adventures of a bright and inventive middle child in a large family. This role showcased Jenna’s comedic timing and relatable charm, making her a household name among young audiences.

Transitioning to Mature Roles

After Disney, Jenna was determined to avoid being typecast in “childish” roles. She actively sought out mature, complex characters that allowed her to display her range. This transition wasn’t easy, but it paid off when she landed a role in Netflix’s psychological thriller You, playing Ellie Alves, a smart and independent teenager.

Becoming the New Face of Horror

Jenna has quickly become known as a “scream queen” in Hollywood. Her roles in horror films like The Babysitter: Killer Queen, X, and Scream (2022) have cemented her status in the genre. Unlike many actors who shy away from horror, Jenna embraces it, stating that she loves the thrill and complexity of these characters.

The Phenomenon of Wednesday

2022 was a career-defining year for Jenna, as she took on the role of Wednesday Addams in Tim Burton’s Netflix series Wednesday. Her performance, blending dark humor and emotional depth, received widespread acclaim. The series became a global sensation, earning Jenna nominations for a Golden Globe and an Emmy Award.

Advocacy and Social Impact

Beyond acting, Jenna is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness, LGBTQ+ rights, and Latina representation in Hollywood. She has spoken openly about the need for more diversity in media and uses her platform to promote positive change.

Fashion and Red Carpet Influence

Jenna is also making waves in the fashion industry. She has graced the covers of major magazines and attended top-tier events like the Met Gala. Known for her edgy and gothic-inspired style, Jenna has become a fashion icon for young fans.

Future Projects and Legacy

Jenna shows no signs of slowing down. With upcoming roles in Wednesday Season 2, Beetlejuice 2, and other high-profile projects, she is set to dominate Hollywood for years to come. Her journey is an inspiration for young actors everywhere.