Jenna Ortega is no longer just playing Wednesday Addams; she is actively shaping who the character is. Following the release of Season 2 of Wednesday in 2025, Ortega’s deeper involvement behind the scenes has become one of the biggest reasons the character continues to resonate with audiences.
In her interview with Netflix Tudum, Ortega made it clear that her connection to Wednesday goes beyond performance. She understands the character on a level that allows her to influence how the story unfolds, making Season 2 feel more intentional and refined.
Jenna Ortega’s Influence Goes Beyond Acting
One of the biggest shifts in Season 2 was Ortega stepping into a producer role. That change gave her more control over creative decisions, from character tone to visual details.
“It’s been a really amazing experience being a producer on Wednesday,”
Ortega said.
“Now that I’m familiar with the team… it’s definitely a comfortable, safe environment to ask questions and learn a bit more.”
This involvement allowed her to shape the character in subtle but important ways. Instead of just delivering lines, she became part of the decision-making process that defines how Wednesday behaves and reacts.
That’s a major factor in why the character feels more grounded and consistent, even as the show expands its story.
Why Wednesday Still Feels Different From Every Other Character
Despite becoming one of Netflix’s most popular characters, Wednesday hasn’t changed her core identity. Ortega has been very intentional about preserving what makes her unique.
“Success for me is more about feeling accomplished and being able to put something out into the world and feel proud,” she explained.
That mindset reflects directly in how she approaches the role. Rather than trying to make Wednesday more likable or mainstream, Ortega leans into her individuality.
“She’s such an admirable, honest, truthful character who is a loner,”
Ortega said.
“The only people we deal with every day are the people in our head.”
This perspective is what keeps the character authentic. Wednesday doesn’t evolve by becoming more like everyone else. She evolves by staying true to herself.
Season 2 Puts Wednesday in an Uncomfortable Position
One of the most interesting developments in Season 2 is how Wednesday’s popularity within Nevermore Academy changes her dynamic.
For a character who rejects attention, suddenly being recognized creates internal conflict. Ortega highlighted this as one of the more intriguing aspects of the story.
Wednesday thrives on isolation, so forcing her into the spotlight creates tension that drives her character forward. This shift allows the show to explore new sides of her personality without compromising her core traits.
Alongside this, Season 2 introduces darker mysteries, evolving relationships, and deeper family elements, all of which add layers to the narrative.
Working With Tim Burton Strengthened the Character
Ortega’s collaboration with Tim Burton continues to play a major role in shaping the series. Their creative partnership allows for experimentation while maintaining a clear vision.
Burton praised Ortega’s understanding of the character, saying,
“There’s got to be somebody who has it in their heart and soul… and that’s what we felt with Jenna”.
For Ortega, that trust created room to explore different interpretations of Wednesday. She noted that Burton’s direction gave her confidence to push boundaries, knowing he would guide the performance when needed.
This balance has helped define the show’s tone, blending dark humor with emotional depth.
