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Jenna Ortega has emerged as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, but her journey to stardom began earlier than many may realize.
Though she initially gained attention through her roles in television shows such as The CW’s Jane the Virgin and the blockbuster film Iron Man 3, it was her casting in Tim Burton’s Wednesday that significantly elevated her career. The role of the Goth teenage high-schooler garnered Ortega nominations for prestigious awards like the Emmy, Golden Globes, and Screen Actors Guild, solidifying her position as a rising star in Hollywood.
While embodying the character of Wednesday Addams, Ortega’s real-life persona shares similarities with the dry and dark humor associated with the iconic character. However, her connection to her heritage, like the fictional Addams, remains a significant aspect of her identity.
Jenna Ortega was born in Palm Desert, California, and comes from a large family, being the fourth of six siblings. Her father, of Mexican descent, serves as a sheriff at the district attorney’s office, while her mother, of Mexican-Puerto Rican heritage, works as an emergency nurse. Ortega proudly embraces her multicultural background, acknowledging her roots with pride.
In an interview with Glamour magazine, Ortega shared details about her family history, revealing that her great-grandmother migrated from a small ranch near Sinaloa, Mexico, as an illegal immigrant in pursuit of a better life for her daughters. She identifies herself as 75 percent Mexican and 25 percent Puerto Rican, highlighting the significance of her heritage in shaping her identity.
Ortega’s decision to take on the role of Wednesday was influenced by the representation factor it offered. In an interview with Elle, she expressed the importance of showcasing Wednesday’s Latina heritage as a normal aspect of her character. Ortega emphasized the significance of depicting diverse backgrounds on screen and the importance of normalized representation.
Despite recent rumors suggesting otherwise, Ortega remains set to reprise her role in the upcoming second season of Wednesday, continuing her impactful portrayal of the iconic character.