Does Jenna Ortega Find Her 'Wednesday' Schoolgirl Uniform Patronising?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Jenna Ortega opens up about the challenges of being a shorter actress in Hollywood, particularly the struggle for recognition while portraying schoolgirl characters. Her reflections on evolving tastes and gender expectations in the industry provide a deeper understanding of her journey as a young actress.
Key Takeaways
- Jenna Ortega faces challenges as a shorter actress.
- 'Wednesday' presents a unique career dilemma for her.
- Gender expectations impact how young actresses are perceived.
- Ortega’s tastes have evolved since her early career.
- Hollywood needs to address representation for young women.
Los Angeles, May 29 (NationPress) “Wednesday” star Jenna Ortega has expressed that it can be quite the challenge to be “taken seriously” as a shorter actress.
The 22-year-old actress portrays the iconic character Wednesday Addams in Netflix’s ‘Addams Family’ spin-off series.
In an interview with Harper's Bazaar, she stated: “It’s always been really annoying, because you just don’t feel like you’re being taken seriously. You know, it’s like how you’re dressed in the schoolgirl costume... There’s just something about it that’s very patronising.
“Also, when you’re short, people are already physically looking down on you.”
The actress acknowledged that 'Wednesday' has placed her in a challenging position in her career as she strives for recognition as a serious actress, according to reports from femalefirst.co.uk.
She mentioned, “I’m doing a show I’m going to be doing for years where I play a schoolgirl. But I’m also a young woman.”
The 'Scream' star, who gained fame as a child actress in the comedy-drama 'Jane The Virgin' over a decade ago, has appeared in titles such as 'You', 'X', 'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice', and 'Death of a Unicorn'.
Ortega remarked that boys often have an easier path when growing up in the public eye.
She explained: “But girls, if they don’t stay as this perfect image of how they were first introduced to you, then it’s ‘Ah, something’s wrong. She’s changed. She sold her soul.’ But you’re witnessing these women during the most critical times in their lives; they’re experimenting because that’s what you do.”
Reflecting on her evolution, Ortega shared how her “tastes” have transformed as she matured, particularly after her time on Disney Channel's 'Stuck in the Middle' ended in 2018, allowing her newfound freedom.
She mused: “I definitely feel like I have a bit more Gothic taste than I did when I was a teenager. I’ve always been into dark things or been fascinated by them, but I was a Disney kid, and the whole thing is being bubbly and kind and overly sweet.”
Point of View
It's evident that Jenna Ortega’s candid remarks highlight the ongoing challenges faced by young actresses. Her experiences shed light on the broader issues of gender expectations and the difficulties in being perceived as a serious artist in an industry that often prioritizes superficial appearances. Ortega's voice is crucial in fostering discussions about representation and growth in Hollywood.
NationPress
30/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Jenna Ortega say about her schoolgirl uniform?
Jenna Ortega described her schoolgirl uniform from 'Wednesday' as very patronising, reflecting her struggle to be taken seriously as a shorter actress.
How has Jenna Ortega's career evolved?
Ortega has transitioned from a child star in 'Jane The Virgin' to a leading actress in shows like 'Wednesday', while navigating public expectations.
