Jenna Ortega Discusses Life Beyond Child Stardom: Embracing Womanhood in ‘Wednesday’ While Playing a Schoolgirl

Jenna Ortega is opening up about her experiences in Hollywood, especially the challenges of being seen as a child star. During an interview with Harper’s Bazaar, she discussed the bonds she’s formed with fellow former child actors like Winona Ryder and Natalie Portman. This camaraderie has been valuable to her, particularly when it comes to coping with stereotypes.

Ortega shared how her height and youthful appearance can sometimes make others treat her like a child. “It’s annoying because you want to be taken seriously,” she said. She described the schoolgirl role in Wednesday as a bit patronizing, which adds to that feeling.

Before landing the role of Wednesday Addams in Tim Burton’s series, Jenna was known for her bubbly Disney image. Now, at 22, she finds herself still playing a schoolgirl while also trying to embrace adulthood. “I’m doing a show where I play a schoolgirl, but I’m also a young woman,” she explained.

Despite her character being an outsider, Wednesday has become a pop culture sensation for Jenna. “I never saw myself as a pop actor, but here I am,” she noted.

To avoid being typecast in horror roles, Jenna is looking for more diverse projects. “I want to find older, bolder roles that challenge me,” she said. Now a producer for Wednesday’s second season, she’s eager to expand her creative horizons. Jenna even mentioned plans to direct a script she’s been passionate about for nearly a decade.

The conversation around child stardom and Hollywood stereotypes is gaining attention. A recent survey showed that 74% of young actors feel pressure to fit a certain image. As more actors like Jenna speak out, the industry may shift towards a broader understanding of youth and talent.

For more insights on the effects of child stardom in Hollywood, you can visit The Pew Research Center.

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