Wednesday Star Jenna Ortega recently opened up about how the success of Netflix’s hit series transformed her world. As Ortega gears up for the release of Season 2, she reflected on the emotional rollercoaster that followed the show’s breakout popularity in 2022.
Here’s what Jenna Ortega said about her sudden fame after the show’s success.
Jenna Ortega reveals fame after Wednesday’s success was ‘overwhelming’
Jenna Ortega admitted that she wasn’t ready for the level of attention that came with the show’s global recognition.
Speaking with BBC culture correspondent Lizo Mzimba, the Wednesday star explained that she is “very grateful and glad that it was able to resonate with people in the way that it did.” However, she also emphasized, “Is anyone [ever ready]? No, I wasn’t. I wouldn’t want to know someone who is. I don’t think that should ever be like a normal sort of [experience].”
Ortega candidly shared how the overnight fame felt “overwhelming,” especially since the cast and crew had no idea whether Wednesday would connect with audiences. “You do these things and you don’t know what’s to come, so it was very overwhelming,” she said.
In a previous interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Jenna Ortega elaborated on how her relationship with fans has changed. While she appreciates their support, she confessed that public encounters can be anxiety-inducing. “Somebody shouting your name in public is insane,” she said. “Sometimes I feel uncomfortable when it’s grown men approaching me.”
She even revealed that certain fan interactions have crossed boundaries. Ortega recalled moments when fans verbally abused her in public simply because she didn’t stop to engage. “You don’t stop for somebody because you’re going to be late for something and they’re calling you a ‘c— w—-’ in front of your mother. It’s horrific,” she recalled.
Despite the pressure, Ortega continues to express gratitude for the opportunity and remains committed to the show. The first season of Wednesday broke records as Netflix’s most-watched English-language series upon its 2022 debut.
Netflix is set to drop the first part of Tim Burton’s gothic teen mystery’s second season on August 6.
Originally reported by Harshika Bhatia on ComingSoon.
