Jenna Ortega, known for her breakout role as the darkly enigmatic Wednesday Addams in the hit Netflix series ‘Wednesday’, is once again stepping into a similarly shadowy role in Tim Burton’s upcoming ‘Beetlejuice 2’. Her continued portrayal of goth-inspired characters raises concerns about the risks of typecasting in Hollywood.
Jenna Ortega: Hollywood’s Goth Icon
Ortega’s rise to stardom was meteoric, thanks to her compelling performance as Wednesday Addams, a rebellious teen with a disdain for authority and a penchant for dark makeup. This role not only resonated with audiences worldwide but also redefined the horror-mystery genre. Now, Jenna is set to portray Astrid Deetz in ‘Beetlejuice 2’, a character that seems to echo many aspects of Wednesday. Astrid, the rebellious teenage daughter who clashes with her family and ultimately summons the chaotic spirit of Beetlejuice, mirrors Wednesday’s dark, anti-authoritarian vibe.
I think they instantly just fight whatever it is that their parent loves. So I think it’s a little bit of that. I’m not wearing pink and a cheerleader, but I am a little bit against my mom’s history or past. We butt heads quite a bit.
The Risk of Being Pigeonholed
The danger of being typecast is a well-known issue in the entertainment industry. Stars like Keanu Reeves and typecast roles like the stoic assassin in ‘John Wick’ exemplify how repetitive casting can shape an actor’s career path. Jenna Ortega’s situation appears similar, with her early career now firmly rooted in what the industry sees as her ‘niche’ – the goth archetype.
While this typecasting can initially seem beneficial—offering actors steady work and a recognizable brand—it may also restrict their opportunities to explore diverse roles. For Jenna, the chance to work alongside legends such as Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder in ‘Beetlejuice 2’ is undoubtedly a significant career move. Yet, the shadow of typecasting looms large, potentially stymieing her ability to evolve as an actress.
What’s Next for Jenna Ortega?
With ‘Beetlejuice 2’ set to hit theaters on September 6, 2024, fans are eager to see Ortega’s performance, which may yet prove to be a turning point in her career. Meanwhile, her portrayal of Wednesday Addams remains available for streaming on Netflix, where it continues to attract viewers with its unique blend of mystery and dark humor.
As Jenna Ortega navigates her path in Hollywood, her choices will likely influence how she is perceived in the industry. While her current trajectory places her firmly within a specific type of role, only time will tell if she will break the mold and surprise us with something entirely different. For now, Jenna Ortega remains a formidable presence in genre cinema, captivating audiences with her brooding personas and complex performances.