The actress who plays Wednesday Addams is Jenna Ortega. As of 2025, she is 22 years old, having been born on September 27, 2002, in Coachella Valley, California. Ortega is best known for this role on the Netflix series Wednesday, as well as for earlier work on the Disney Channel show Stuck in the Middle and her portrayal of young Ellie in the film The Fallout. She has also voiced characters in animated projects and taken on drama roles that highlight her range. This profile explains her age, key milestones, and how she built a diverse portfolio across streaming, film, and television.
Key Facts at a Glance
Quick, verifiable details about Jenna Ortega and milestones related to her role as Wednesday Addams.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Birth Date | September 27, 2002 | Public Biography |
| Age in 2025 | 22 years old | Calculated from birth date |
| Breakout Role | Wednesday Addams in Netflix’s Wednesday (2022–present) | Production Announcements |
| Notable Earlier Work | Young Ellie in The Fallout (2021), Stuck in the Middle (Disney Channel) | Credits Listings |
| Industry Recognition | Role cited in major studio press materials and official cast profiles | Studio Press |
Her Role as Wednesday Addams
Jenna Ortega stars as Wednesday Addams in the Netflix series Wednesday, a standalone story set at Nevermore Academy. The show blends comedy, horror, and mystery, and Ortega’s performance has been central to its reception. She worked closely with the showrunner and directors to develop Wednesday’s physicality and vocal delivery. The series has run for multiple seasons, with her involvement confirmed for ongoing installments. This role represents her most prominent and widely recognized work to date.
How She Prepared for the Role
In interviews, Ortega has described studying iconic Addams Family gestures and vocal patterns, as well as working with coaches on choreography specific to Wednesday’s deadpan delivery. She balanced dry comedic timing with moments of emotional vulnerability required by the story. Preparation included movement rehearsals on set and collaboration with costume and makeup teams to align her performance with the character’s visual design. These steps helped anchor the character in both the Addams tradition and a modern teen context.
The Show’s Cultural Impact
Wednesday has been highlighted for its tone, music, and representation, with Ortega frequently mentioned as a highlight in reviews. The show has sparked discussions about blending genre storytelling with teen drama, and her work has contributed to how the series balances camp and sincerity. While reception has varied across critics and audiences, the series remains a prominent reference point in discussions about modern adaptations of classic characters.
Earlier Work and Career Progression
Before playing Wednesday Addams, Ortega built a portfolio that showcased her range. She gained experience on the Disney Channel series Stuck in the Middle, which introduced her to broader teen audiences. She also took the dramatic role of young Ellie in The Fallout, which was noted for its grounded approach to school trauma. These projects helped her develop techniques for shifting between comedic and dramatic beats, informing her approach to Wednesday.
Career Milestones
- Lead role in Netflix series Wednesday (2022–present)
- Breakout dramatic performance in The Fallout (2021)
- Disney Channel regular role in Stuck in the Middle (2016–2018)
- Voice and motion work in family and genre projects
- Industry recognition through cast features and press materials
Public Persona and Visibility
Ortega maintains an active but measured public presence. She uses social platforms to share process-oriented content, set moments, and causes she supports, while keeping some aspects of her personal life private. She has participated in press tours, interviews, and panel events that connect her with fans and industry peers. This balanced approach contributes to sustained interest in her career beyond a single project.
Where to Follow Her Work
Fans can follow Ortega’s professional updates through official channels and reputable entertainment news outlets. Key places to track new projects include her verified social profiles, studio press releases, and announcements from Netflix. Staying engaged with these sources helps ensure access to accurate casting news, role confirmations, and future opportunities she pursues.
Conclusion
Jenna Ortega, born September 27, 2002, is the actress behind Wednesday Addams and is 22 years old in 2025. Her trajectory from early television roles to leading a major Netflix series highlights her adaptability and focus. This evergreen profile is designed to remain useful by emphasizing verified details about her age, milestones, and body of work, so readers can understand both the person and the performer behind the character.