Jenna Ortega’s Career: From ‘Insidious: Chapter 2’ to ‘Wednesday’

Jenna Ortega began her career as a child actor, appearing in small film and television roles from a young age. She steadily built a resume through recurring parts in popular shows and lead roles on the Disney Channel, where she became a familiar face to a young audience. Her early work laid the foundation for a career that would later take a significant turn toward more mature and complex characters.

As she transitioned from teen roles, Ortega gained widespread recognition for her work in the horror genre, earning the title of a modern “scream queen.” Her performances in major horror franchises and critically acclaimed thrillers showcased her talent for intense, dramatic acting. This led to her iconic, star-making role in the record-breaking series ‘Wednesday’, which elevated her to global fame and established her as one of Hollywood’s most sought-after young actors.

‘Insidious: Chapter 2’ (2013)

One of Jenna Ortega’s earliest film roles was a small part in this popular supernatural horror sequel. She played Annie, a young girl who appears in a flashback sequence. The film delves deeper into the paranormal events that haunt the Lambert family, exploring the history of the ghostly dimension known as “The Further.”

Although her screen time was brief, the role marked her first appearance in a major horror franchise. It was an early sign of the genre that would later become a significant part of her career. Working on such a high-profile horror film at a young age provided her with valuable experience in a demanding genre.

‘Rake’ (2014)

In this short-lived legal comedy-drama, Jenna Ortega had a recurring role as Zoe Leon. The series starred Greg Kinnear as a brilliant but self-destructive defense attorney. Ortega played the young daughter of the attorney’s former bookie, and her character appeared in several episodes throughout the show’s single season.

This part was one of Ortega’s first significant roles on network television. It allowed her to work alongside a cast of established actors in a prime-time series. Playing a recurring character gave her consistent exposure and experience in a professional television production environment.

‘The Little Rascals Save the Day’ (2014)

Jenna Ortega played the iconic character of Mary Ann in this direct-to-video family comedy. The film is a modern adaptation of the classic ‘Our Gang’ shorts, following the adventures of a group of neighborhood kids. In the story, the gang tries to raise money to save their grandmother’s bakery from closing.

This role placed Ortega in a well-known children’s franchise, allowing her to showcase her comedic timing. She played one of the central members of the beloved group of rascals. The film was a lighthearted project that appealed directly to a young audience.

‘Jane the Virgin’ (2014–2019)

For five seasons, Jenna Ortega played a key recurring role in this critically acclaimed satirical telenovela. She portrayed the younger version of the main character, Jane Villanueva, in numerous flashback scenes. These flashbacks were essential to the show’s storytelling, providing context for Jane’s personality, values, and relationships.

This long-running part was a significant one in Ortega’s early career. She was praised for her ability to capture the mannerisms and spirit of the adult Jane, played by Gina Rodriguez. The role in a Golden Globe-winning series gave her consistent visibility and associated her with a high-quality, beloved show.

‘After Words’ (2015)

In this independent drama, Jenna Ortega took on the supporting role of Anna Chapa. The film stars Marcia Gay Harden as a librarian who, after a personal crisis, decides to travel to Costa Rica. Ortega’s character is a local girl who forms a connection with the librarian’s tour guide.

The role was a departure from her work in comedy and children’s projects. It allowed her to participate in a more serious, character-driven story. Working on an independent film with an Academy Award-winning actor provided another valuable learning experience.

‘Richie Rich’ (2015)

Jenna Ortega had a main role in this Netflix sitcom based on the classic comic book character. She played Darcy, a savvy money manager and the best friend of the self-made young billionaire Richie Rich. Darcy is portrayed as smart and often more responsible than Richie, helping him manage his wealth and navigate his adventures.

As a main character in a streaming series, Ortega gained more experience as a lead actor in a comedy format. The show was aimed at a family audience and demonstrated her skills in a lighthearted, fast-paced sitcom environment. Her character was a key part of the show’s dynamic.

‘Stuck in the Middle’ (2016–2018)

This Disney Channel series was Jenna Ortega’s breakout lead role. She starred as Harley Diaz, a brilliant young inventor and the middle child in a family with seven kids. The show is told from Harley’s perspective as she uses her creativity to navigate the chaos of her large family.

The role made Ortega a star among young audiences. She carried the show as its narrator and central character for three seasons, earning praise for her charismatic and energetic performance. ‘Stuck in the Middle’ solidified her status as a talented young actor and a familiar face on the Disney Channel.

‘Elena of Avalor’ (2016–2020)

Ortega had a main voice role in this popular Disney animated series. She voiced Princess Isabel, the younger sister of the titular character, Crown Princess Elena. Isabel is a clever young inventor who often helps her older sister solve problems and protect their kingdom of Avalor.

Over the course of the series, Ortega brought Princess Isabel’s intelligence and enthusiasm to life. The role in a groundbreaking show featuring Disney’s first Latina princess allowed her to be part of a culturally significant project. It also established her as a talented voice actor.

‘Saving Flora’ (2018)

In this family drama film, Jenna Ortega took on the lead role of Dawn. Her character is the daughter of a circus owner who decides to run away with the circus’s aging elephant, Flora, to save her from being put down. Their journey is a heartfelt adventure across forests and rivers.

This starring role was a showcase for Ortega’s ability to lead a film and carry its emotional weight. She delivered a sensitive performance that highlighted the bond between her character and the animal. The film explored themes of compassion, determination, and the importance of fighting for what is right.

‘Wyrm’ (2019)

Jenna Ortega had a supporting role as Suzie in this quirky coming-of-age comedy. The film is set in a strange, alternate-reality version of the 1990s where teenagers are required to wear electronic collars until they have their first kiss. The story follows a lonely teen struggling to complete this rite of passage.

Ortega played the crush of the main character’s brother. The film was an offbeat, independent project that played at film festivals. The role showed her continued interest in working on unique and unconventional stories outside of mainstream productions.

‘You’ (2019)

This role marked a major turning point in Jenna Ortega’s career, transitioning her to more adult roles. She joined the second season of the hit psychological thriller series as Ellie Alves. Ellie is the sharp-witted and mature-for-her-age teenage neighbor of the show’s serial killer protagonist, Joe Goldberg.

Ortega’s performance was widely praised for its confidence and complexity. She portrayed Ellie as a tough, resourceful survivor who becomes entangled in Joe’s dangerous world. The role in such a popular and dark series successfully rebranded her image and introduced her talents to a much wider, adult audience.

‘The Babysitter: Killer Queen’ (2020)

Ortega joined the cast of this horror-comedy sequel as Phoebe Atwell. Her character is a new student at school who is an outcast like the main protagonist, Cole. Phoebe is drawn into the chaos when the demonic cult from the first film returns and targets them.

In this film, Ortega embraced a punk-rock aesthetic and a rebellious attitude. She played a key role in the gory and over-the-top action, further building her resume in the horror genre. Her charismatic performance made her a memorable addition to the cult-favorite franchise.

‘Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous’ (2020–2022)

In this animated adventure series set within the ‘Jurassic Park’ universe, Ortega voiced a main character named Brooklynn. Brooklynn is a popular social media influencer and one of a group of teenagers who get stranded on Isla Nublar during the events of the film ‘Jurassic World’. The group must work together to survive among the dinosaurs.

Ortega voiced her character across five seasons, showing her development from a self-absorbed internet star to a brave and resourceful survivor. The popular Netflix series was another major voice acting role for her, connecting her to another massive global franchise.

‘Yes Day’ (2021)

Jenna Ortega starred in this popular Netflix family comedy alongside Jennifer Garner and Édgar Ramírez. She played Katie Torres, the rebellious teenage daughter who sees her parents as boring and strict. The plot centers on a day where the parents agree to say “yes” to all of their children’s requests.

Ortega convincingly played the part of a typical teenager who feels misunderstood by her parents. Her character’s arc involves reconnecting with her mother and learning to appreciate her family. The film was a huge streaming success, showcasing her ability to handle both comedic and heartfelt material.

‘The Fallout’ (2021)

This critically acclaimed drama featured Jenna Ortega in a powerful lead performance as Vada Cavell. The film follows Vada as she navigates the complex emotional and psychological trauma in the aftermath of a school shooting. It is a quiet and intimate look at grief, friendship, and healing.

Ortega’s performance received widespread praise from critics, who called it a major career breakthrough. She delivered a nuanced and deeply moving portrayal of a teenager processing an unimaginable tragedy. The role solidified her reputation as a formidable dramatic actor and won her several awards.

‘Scream’ (2022)

In the fifth installment of the iconic horror franchise, Jenna Ortega played Tara Carpenter. Her character is the victim of the film’s brutal opening attack, a scene that was praised for its intensity and for subverting the series’ traditions. Unlike most opening victims, Tara survives and becomes a key part of the story.

This role was instrumental in cementing Ortega’s status as a modern “scream queen.” Her visceral and compelling performance as Tara was a highlight of the film. It connected her to one of the most famous horror franchises in history and set her up for a larger role in the future of the series.

‘Studio 666’ (2022)

Jenna Ortega made a memorable cameo appearance in this horror-comedy film starring the band Foo Fighters. She appeared in the movie’s opening scene as Skye Willow, the drummer of a band that was murdered in the haunted house years before the Foo Fighters arrive.

Her brief but bloody role was another nod to her growing reputation in the horror world. The part was a fun, gory cameo that allowed her to be part of a unique project combining rock music with supernatural horror.

‘X’ (2022)

In this critically acclaimed slasher film from director Ti West, Ortega played Lorraine Day. She is the quiet, religious girlfriend of the director in a group of young filmmakers who rent a guest house on a remote Texas farm to shoot an adult film in 1979. The group is soon targeted by the farm’s elderly, murderous owners.

Ortega’s character undergoes a significant transformation, moving from a shy observer to an active participant in the film’s horrific events. Her performance was praised as part of a strong ensemble cast, and the film was celebrated for its style and suspense. ‘X’ further solidified her credentials as a horror icon.

‘American Carnage’ (2022)

This horror-thriller blended social commentary with suspense, and Jenna Ortega played a leading role. She portrayed Camila Montes, one of a group of children of undocumented immigrants who are given a chance to have their charges dropped by volunteering at an eldercare facility. They soon discover the facility is hiding a dark secret.

The film used horror and comedy to explore serious political themes. Ortega’s character is smart and resourceful, helping to lead the group as they try to uncover the truth and survive. The role showcased her ability to lead a film that balanced multiple tones and genres.

‘Wednesday’ (2022–present)

This series gave Jenna Ortega her most iconic role to date, playing Wednesday Addams of the Addams Family. The show follows Wednesday as she is sent to Nevermore Academy, a school for outcasts, where she tries to solve a local murder mystery involving her parents’ past. Ortega’s deadpan delivery, intense stare, and unique dance moves became cultural phenomena.

The role launched Ortega into global superstardom and was a massive success for Netflix, breaking numerous streaming records. Her performance was universally acclaimed, earning her nominations for an Emmy and a Golden Globe. She completely embodied the character, making it her own while honoring its legacy.

‘Scream VI’ (2023)

Ortega reprised her role as Tara Carpenter, who survived the previous film’s massacre. In this sequel, Tara and her sister Sam move to New York City to escape their past, but a new Ghostface killer emerges to terrorize them. Tara is now a lead character, dealing with her trauma while trying to live a normal college life.

In this installment, Ortega’s character is more developed, showing her struggle to move on from the past while her sister remains overprotective. She once again delivered a strong performance, handling both the dramatic emotional scenes and the intense, action-packed chase sequences.

‘Finestkind’ (2023)

In this crime thriller, Jenna Ortega starred as Mabel, a young woman who gets entangled in the dangerous world of organized crime. The story follows two half-brothers who, desperate for money, make a deal with a violent Boston gang, putting themselves and Mabel in grave danger.

The role was a gritty, dramatic turn for Ortega, placing her in a grounded crime story. She portrayed Mabel as a smart and capable character forced to navigate a perilous situation. The part allowed her to work alongside veteran actors like Tommy Lee Jones and Ben Foster.

‘Miller’s Girl’ (2024)

Jenna Ortega co-starred with Martin Freeman in this psychological thriller. She played Cairo Sweet, a gifted and precocious high school student who embarks on a complex and inappropriate relationship with her creative writing teacher. Their connection begins after a provocative writing assignment blurs professional and personal lines.

The film explores themes of power, consent, and manipulation. Ortega’s performance was intense and challenging, as she portrayed a character who is both a victim and a manipulator. The complex role was another example of her taking on difficult, adult-oriented material.

‘Winter Spring Summer or Fall’ (2024)

In this romantic drama, Jenna Ortega starred as Remi Aguilar. The film charts the relationship between Remi and a fellow high school senior over the course of one year, with each season marking a different stage of their connection. It follows them as they fall in love and face the uncertainty of their futures after graduation.

Ortega, who also served as an executive producer on the film, delivered a heartfelt and relatable performance. The role allowed her to explore the nuances of a romantic lead, showcasing a softer and more vulnerable side of her acting range in a character-driven story.

‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ (2024)

Jenna Ortega joined the cast of this highly anticipated sequel to the 1988 classic. She played Astrid Deetz, the teenage daughter of Winona Ryder’s character, Lydia Deetz. The story sees the Deetz family return to Winter River, where Astrid accidentally reawakens the mischievous bio-exorcist, Beetlejuice.

This role placed Ortega in another iconic, gothic-themed universe, drawing comparisons to her work as Wednesday Addams. Acting alongside original cast members Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder, she played a central role in bridging the generational gap in this beloved franchise.

‘Death of a Unicorn’ (2025)

In this dark comedy from A24, Jenna Ortega stars alongside Paul Rudd. The plot follows a father and his teenage daughter who accidentally hit a unicorn with their car while on their way to a corporate retreat. The film is currently in production, with Ortega also serving as an executive producer.

This project continues Ortega’s collaboration with the acclaimed independent studio A24. Her involvement both in front of the camera and behind the scenes as a producer signals her growing influence in Hollywood. The film’s unique premise promises to showcase her comedic and dramatic talents.

‘Hurry Up Tomorrow’ (2025)

Jenna Ortega starred in this drama, which was the feature directorial debut of musician Abel ‘The Weeknd’ Tesfaye. She played a patient in a psychiatric hospital who forms a deep connection with a non-verbal patient, portrayed by Barry Keoghan. The film explores their relationship as they navigate life and find solace within the institution.

The film was praised for its atmospheric style and the powerful, understated performances from its leads. Ortega received positive notices for her emotionally complex portrayal of a character grappling with her own trauma. The role in this artistically driven project showcased her continued commitment to working on bold and original films.

Which Jenna Ortega role has been your absolute favorite to watch?