Tim Burton’s brilliant gamble: Jenna Ortega turns Wednesday into an unexpected Gen Z icon

When Tim Burton first announced his involvement with a new live-action reimagining of The Addams Family focused on Wednesday Addams, the curiosity surrounding the project was immense. But no decision drew more speculation than his choice of lead actress. Casting Jenna Ortega as the iconic Wednesday—a character deeply embedded in American pop culture for nearly a century—was both bold and unconventional.

Fast forward two seasons, and it’s clear: Jenna Ortega has not only lived up to the role but redefined it, proving that Burton’s decision was not just correct, but visionary. Her performance has anchored the series and elevated “Wednesday” beyond expectations, turning it into one of Netflix’s most successful original franchises and transforming Ortega into a household name.

Reimagining a Classic: The Stakes of Playing Wednesday Addams

Before “Wednesday” premiered in 2022, the Addams Family had already enjoyed a rich media legacy. Originating from Charles Addams’ New Yorker cartoons, the family has appeared in everything from 1960s television series to animated movies and even Broadway musicals. Each version had its own take on the family’s macabre charm, but Wednesday Addams remained a standout figure—deadpan, whip-smart, and always slightly terrifying.

With so many iconic versions before her—most notably Christina Ricci’s portrayal in the 1990s—Ortega had big shoes to fill. But instead of replicating previous performances, she made the character her own. In Season 1, Ortega introduced a Wednesday who felt modern, emotionally layered, and deeply connected to the adolescent experience. That bold creative risk paid off, with fans and critics alike praising her for giving depth to a character often treated as one-dimensional.

Her combination of gothic charisma and subtle emotional expression immediately struck a chord, especially with younger audiences. By the time the first season wrapped, Ortega had already begun to redefine what a Gen Z screen icon could look like—unapologetically weird, emotionally intelligent, and deeply introspective.

Season 2: Deeper Mythology, Sharper Performance

Released on August 6, 2025, the second season of “Wednesday” arrives nearly three years after its debut—a delay attributed to pandemic production backups, labor strikes, and scheduling conflicts. Still, the long gap did little to dampen anticipation. If anything, it raised the stakes. Could “Wednesday” Season 2 live up to its breakout first season? And could Ortega maintain the momentum of her initial performance?

The answer, without hesitation, is yes.

Season 2 not only maintains the eerie charm and sharp wit of Season 1—it expands on them. The storytelling delves deeper into the lore of Nevermore Academy, giving Ortega even more complex material to work with. Rather than being a passive observer in the chaos around her, Wednesday takes center stage in shaping the events of the season, positioning her as both a reluctant leader and an emotional anchor.

Where Season 1 was a thrilling introduction, Season 2 is a showcase of character development. Ortega now navigates Wednesday’s internal conflicts—grappling with loyalty, vulnerability, and even trust—without ever betraying the character’s signature stoicism. This subtle emotional evolution shows Ortega’s range and confidence as an actress, proving that her performance wasn’t lightning in a bottle, but part of a sustained, thoughtful arc.

Burton’s Vision, Ortega’s Execution

Director Tim Burton has always thrived in the space between darkness and whimsy, from “Edward Scissorhands” to “Corpse Bride.” In “Wednesday,” he found the perfect canvas for that aesthetic—but none of it would work without the right lead.

It’s Ortega who transforms Burton’s gothic visual palette into a fully realized world. Her ability to deliver deadpan humor while maintaining emotional depth gives the show its heartbeat. Burton’s choice wasn’t just about casting a “look” or even raw talent—it was about intuition. He needed someone who could redefine a legendary character for a new era, and Jenna Ortega delivered.

What’s more, Ortega’s commitment to the role extends beyond the camera. From choreographing Wednesday’s now-iconic dance scene to contributing creatively behind the scenes in Season 2, she has proven herself as a collaborative force, not just an actress-for-hire. She’s actively shaping the show’s tone and direction, further justifying Burton’s trust in her as more than just a performer—but a creative partner.

A Netflix Phenomenon Driven by Ortega’s Performance

“Wednesday” didn’t just become popular—it became a cultural event. Season 1 was one of Netflix’s most-watched series of all time, generating over a billion viewing hours within weeks. Ortega’s portrayal of Wednesday spawned memes, TikTok trends, Halloween costumes, and countless fan tributes, solidifying her as a cultural touchstone.

With the launch of Season 2, Netflix leaned fully into the show’s popularity, hosting an elaborate premiere that featured a surprise cameo from Lady Gaga. This moment wasn’t just a celebrity stunt—it reflected how culturally significant “Wednesday” has become. And at the center of it all is Ortega, effortlessly navigating the demands of stardom while remaining authentic to the character that brought her into the spotlight.

Critical Reception: Praise for Ortega, Praise for the Series

While Season 2 has expanded its ensemble and introduced more subplots, reviews have consistently highlighted Ortega’s performance as the thread holding everything together. Critics have praised her for bringing even more nuance, wit, and presence to the role, noting that while the show grows in complexity, it never loses its emotional clarity—thanks largely to her.

The show’s ability to balance horror, humor, mystery, and teen drama rests heavily on Ortega’s shoulders. Her comedic timing, emotional restraint, and command of tone all contribute to a performance that continues to feel effortless, even when the narrative becomes more elaborate.

Beyond Wednesday: A Star Ascending

“Wednesday” may have made Jenna Ortega a star, but it’s clear she’s not stopping there. With major roles in other high-profile projects and a growing presence on the global stage, Ortega is carving a path that blends mainstream success with creative integrity.

Yet, it’s her dedication to the Wednesday character that remains her most defining role to date. She has shown not just that she can carry a franchise—but that she can reinvent one.

Tim Burton took a gamble. He chose a young actress with indie roots and gave her one of the most iconic roles in modern television. Two seasons in, there’s no doubt: Jenna Ortega has more than validated that decision. She’s made it impossible to imagine anyone else in the role, and in doing so, has helped redefine what legacy storytelling looks like for a new generation.

Conclusion: A Legacy Reinvented and a Future Secured

With two acclaimed seasons, record-breaking viewership, and a growing mythos behind the character and the show, “Wednesday” stands as one of Netflix’s greatest original successes. But that success doesn’t rest solely on direction, writing, or production.

It rests on Jenna Ortega’s bold, genre-defining portrayal of a beloved character—and Tim Burton’s brilliant foresight in giving her the space to shine.

The story of Wednesday Addams has been told many times. But thanks to Ortega, it’s being told in a way we’ve never seen before. And that’s not just good casting—that’s legacy.