Jenna Ortega: Gen Z’s New Horror Queen Is Shaking Up Hollywood
With Wednesday season 2 gripping audiences worldwide, Jenna Ortega has firmly cemented herself as the reigning force of gothic horror. At just 22, Ortega has evolved dramatically from her Disney Channel beginnings as the sunny star of Stuck in the Middle into Gen Z’s ultimate scream queen. Her deadpan stare and razor-edged delivery cut through pop culture like sharp weapons, reshaping the modern horror landscape. Jenna’s rise wasn’t by chance—it was forged by instinct, grit, and roles that sharpened her horror edge while shattering industry expectations.
This article explores Jenna Ortega’s bloody path to her horror crown, tracing her journey from early genre appearances to career-defining performances that have redefined what it means to be a modern horror icon.
Jenna Ortega’s First Taste of Horror: ‘Insidious: Chapter 2’ (2013)
Long before she was a household name, Jenna Ortega made her horror debut with a brief but memorable appearance in the successful franchise Insidious: Chapter 2. Though her role was small, it was crucial—it introduced her to the mechanics of horror cinema where atmosphere, tension, and the supernatural intertwine to create lasting chills.
This early exposure gave Jenna a foundational understanding of horror’s power to evoke fear and suspense, planting the seeds for a career that would lean heavily into the genre’s darker side. It was a first step that set her apart from other young actresses and hinted at her future in horror.
Dark Turn into Psychological Thrillers: ‘You’ (2019)
Jenna Ortega’s portrayal of Ellie Alves in the psychological thriller You marked a significant turning point in her career, signaling her transition from light-hearted Disney roles into darker, more mature territory. As Ellie, a sharp and cynical aspiring filmmaker caught in the dangerous web of serial killer Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley), Jenna showcased her trademark deadpan humor and psychological depth.
Her performance was layered and complex, navigating tense and high-stakes situations with ease. This role demonstrated that Jenna could handle adult material while maintaining a nuanced and authentic character, further solidifying her reputation as an emerging talent capable of thriving in horror and thriller genres.
Balancing Scares with Black Comedy: ‘The Babysitter: Killer Queen’ (2020)
In The Babysitter: Killer Queen, a black comedy slasher, Jenna Ortega perfected the deadpan delivery she had begun honing in You. Playing Phoebe Atwell, a new student caught in a deadly battle against a demonic cult, Ortega combined genuine scares with sharp dark humor.
Her character’s physical resilience and witty survival instincts showcased her versatility within the horror-comedy subgenre. Jenna’s ability to maintain character authenticity in absurd and gory scenarios proved her unique appeal to both horror purists and comedy fans alike, expanding her reach within the genre.
The Role That Crowned Her as a Modern Scream Queen: ‘Scream’ (2022)
Jenna Ortega’s role in the 2022 Scream reboot solidified her status as a modern scream queen. Playing Mindy Meeks-Martin, she brought intelligence, humor, and resourcefulness to a franchise beloved by horror fans worldwide.
This black comedy slasher allowed her to demonstrate her flair for blending dark humor with chilling suspense, delivering scenes filled with genuine terror and razor-sharp wit. Ortega’s performance resonated deeply, earning her praise for balancing the franchise’s traditional scares with fresh energy and a contemporary voice.
Expanding Her Horror Range: ‘X’ (2022)
Just months after Scream, Jenna Ortega starred in the Ti West-directed indie slasher X, which cemented her credibility across mainstream and independent cinema. In X, she played Lorraine Day, a reserved girlfriend drawn into a deadly nightmare on a remote farm.
Ortega’s grounded and emotionally intense performance culminated in a memorable, blood-curdling scream that has become iconic among horror fans. Successfully navigating both blockbuster and critically acclaimed indie horror in a single year showcased her remarkable range and versatility as a genre performer.
Jenna Ortega’s Gothic Superstardom: ‘Wednesday’ (2022–Present)
Tim Burton’s gothic series Wednesday represents the synthesis of Jenna Ortega’s entire horror journey. Her portrayal of Wednesday Addams melds the deadpan humor from You, the physical resilience from Scream, and the emotional depth from X into one iconic performance.
Beyond acting, Jenna helped shape the character creatively, choreographing the viral dance sequence that captivated millions and making the distinctive choice for Wednesday never to blink—a subtle but powerful character trait. The series launched Jenna into global superstardom, redefining gothic entertainment for a new generation and solidifying her place as a horror icon.
Inheriting Hollywood’s Macabre Throne: ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ (2024)
Jenna Ortega’s ascension to horror royalty was completed with her role as Astrid Deetz in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024), the eagerly anticipated sequel to the cult classic. As the daughter of Winona Ryder’s iconic Lydia, Jenna symbolizes the passing of the gothic torch from one generation’s dark icon to the next.
Reuniting with Tim Burton, Ortega’s involvement cements her status as the definitive heir to Hollywood’s macabre throne. This role proves her horror reign extends beyond a single character or franchise, affirming her lasting impact on the genre’s legacy.
Why Jenna Ortega is Gen Z’s Ultimate Scream Queen
Jenna Ortega’s rise to become Gen Z’s scream queen stems from more than just memorable screams or chilling scenes. It’s her authenticity, versatility, and fearless approach to storytelling that set her apart. She has defied industry expectations by choosing roles that challenge traditional horror tropes, bringing fresh perspectives to each character she embodies.
Her deadpan delivery—equal parts humor and menace—resonates powerfully in today’s pop culture, creating a distinct style that cuts through the noise. Whether she’s battling supernatural forces, surviving slasher killers, or embodying gothic darkness, Jenna Ortega embodies the spirit of a modern horror icon.
The Bloody Path Forward
With Wednesday season 2 captivating fans worldwide and numerous upcoming projects on the horizon, Jenna Ortega’s scream queen reign is only just beginning. Her journey from Disney Channel to horror royalty illustrates her resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to her craft.
As she continues to headline major projects and collaborate with influential creators, Jenna Ortega is poised to become one of the most enduring and beloved figures in horror. Her bloody path to the crown has redefined what it means to be a scream queen in the 21st century—and fans can expect many more unforgettable performances from this rising star.
