Jenna Ortega, with an estimated net worth of $3 to $5 million as reported by Celebrity Net Worth, stands as a testament to her success as an actress. Her work in various roles has been her main source of income, showcasing a blend of talent and financial acumen in her flourishing career.

Let’s Talk About Jenna’s Instagram

Jenna Ortega’s presence on Instagram is nothing short of remarkable. With a modest following that skyrocketed from 9.39 million to an astounding 40 million followers, her account witnessed an exponential growth rate. This surge, particularly notable over just 10 days following Wednesday season 1, as highlighted by PopCrave, underscores her rising popularity.

Her Instagram followers now exceed 20 million, a figure that not only reflects her wide-reaching influence but also enhances her value as a brand ambassador. Publications have estimated her per-post pay for a sponsored post to be around $78,000, further cementing her lucrative partnerships with prominent brands like Adidas, Christian Dior, and Neutrogena. This social media prowess complements her already impressive net worth, showcasing her appeal in both the acting and digital spheres.

What Is Jenna Ortega’s Net Worth?

As an American actress, Jenna Ortega’s net worth is a subject of considerable interest. Currently estimated at around $5 million, her financial success is a reflection of her dynamic career. Starting as a child actress in television series like Jane the Virgin and Stuck in the Middle, she has gracefully transitioned into adult roles.

Her significant recognition skyrocketed with her portrayal of the titular character in Netflix’s supernatural horror comedy, Wednesday. Besides, Jenna has acted in various notable films, including Yes Day, The Fallout, American Carnage, and Scream VI, each contributing to her impressive net worth and solidifying her place in the entertainment industry.

Early life

Born on September 27, 2002, in Palm Desert, California, Jenna Marie Ortega’s journey is a tale of determination and cultural roots. As the fourth of six siblings, Jenna’s early life was marked by a blend of cultural influences. Her father, a former sheriff at the California district attorney’s office, and her mother, an emergency room nurse of Mexican and Puerto Rican descent, instilled in her a profound sense of identity. This identity was further enriched by her maternal great-grandmother, an illegal immigrant from Sinaloa, Mexico, and her maternal grandfather from Puerto Rico.

Jenna’s foray into acting began in La Quinta, California, at the tender age of six. Initially, her mother used acting as a way to distract Jenna from other activities, like soccer and school, where she did not feel as engaged. The turning point came when she decided to quit these activities and focus solely on acting. Her journey wasn’t easy; she started with a monologue book and a video sent to a casting director. At nine years old, she was signed by an agency, marking the beginning of countless trips driving to Los Angeles for auditions, six hours a day, five days a week.

Jenna’s early auditions were challenging. She often went for parts meant for Latinas, but her look wasn’t always what casting directors sought, leading to many rejections. However, these rejections only motivated her more, shifting her viewpoint on the film industry. Despite the hurdles, she landed roles in 12 national campaigns, including McDonald’s commercials. Balancing her career, she attended Amelia Earhart Elementary School and John Glenn Middle School but dropped out in eighth grade to focus more on her career, including various Disney projects.

Her breakthrough role came with Stuck in the Middle (2016–2018), where she juggled a hectic workweek with her life at her apartment, keeping her weekends free. Jenna’s story is not just about an actress; it’s about a young girl from a diverse background, turning every setback into a step forward, embodying the spirit of her ancestors from Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Career

2012–2017: Early Acting Roles And Disney

Jenna Ortega’s journey in the entertainment industry began with her acting debut in the sitcom ‘Rob’ in 2012. She portrayed a victim of an accidental shooting in an episode of CSI: NY titled ‘Unspoken’. This early exposure paved the way for her film debut in a minor role as the vice president’s daughter in the superhero film ‘Iron Man 3’ in 2013. Following this, Jenna joined the supporting cast of the horror film ‘Insidious: Chapter 2’, contributing to one of the highest-grossing films at the box office that year.

Her journey took a significant turn when she landed a recurring role in The CW’s comedy television series ‘Jane the Virgin’. Jenna’s portrayal as the younger version of Jane Villanueva, played by Gina Rodriguez as an adult, was remarkable. Her audition and casting were heavily influenced by her striking resemblance to Gina Rodriguez, as noted by Declan Gallagher of Entertainment Weekly, who praised her performance as a child actor.

In a shift towards family-oriented projects, Jenna starred in the direct-to-video comedy film ‘The Little Rascals Save the Day’. She then appeared in the Netflix series ‘Richie Rich’ in 2015. Her role in ‘After Words’, where she played Anna Chapa, was described as adorable by the Los Angeles Times and cloying by The Arizona Republic.

Her true breakthrough came with the Disney Channel sitcom ‘Stuck in the Middle’, where she played Harley Diaz, an inventor and the middle child among seven siblings. Her character drew inspiration from her own family and relationships with siblings, resonating with audiences and earning critical acclaim. Her performance in this role was recognized by Common Sense Media and led to multiple Imagen Award nominations for Best Young Actor – Television, which she went on to win in 2018.

Moreover, Jenna voiced Princess Isabel in both ‘Elena and the Secret of Avalor’ and ‘Elena of Avalor’ from 2016–2020, further solidifying her presence in the Disney universe.

2018–2021: Transition To Mature Roles

In 2018, Jenna Ortega embarked on a journey from child star to mature actress. Her shift began with the film ‘Saving Flora’, where she played the lead role of Dawn, a circus owner’s daughter. This role marked a departure from her familiar Disney roles in ‘Stuck in the Middle’ and reflected her desire for more mature projects, moving away from young roles to embrace older roles.

Her next significant role was as Ellie Alves in the Netflix thriller series ‘You’, released on December 26, 2019. This role earned her positive reviews, with The Hollywood Reporter’s Robyn Bahr hailing her as a standout performer. Jenna cherished the creative freedom she experienced on one of her favorite sets, leading to her continued involvement in the third and fourth season, despite scheduling conflicts.

2019 also saw her play Phoebe in ‘The Babysitter: Killer Queen’, released in September 2020. Despite negative reviews, Jenna continued to evolve her craft. In the same year, she voiced Brooklynn in ‘Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous’ (2020–2022) and made her writing debut with ‘It’s All Love’.

2021 brought Jenna to ‘Yes Day’, where she played a stubborn teenager grappling with independence and parental relationships. This role was significant as it touched on themes relevant to young people and people of color. Released in March 2021, the film received mixed reviews from sources like IndieWire and the Associated Press.

However, her most acclaimed role came with the high-school drama ‘The Fallout’, tackling the aftermath of a school shooting and its emotional trauma. Through photographs, videos, and interviews related to March for Our Lives and gun control legislation, Jenna brought an authentic insecurity to her character. Released on HBO Max on January 27, 2022, the film was described by Richard Roeper of the Chicago Sun-Times as a grounded, deeply moving, and nuanced turn in Jenna’s career.

2022–Present: Mainstream Success And Wednesday

2022 marked a pivotal year in Jenna Ortega’s career, propelling her into mainstream success, notably with the fifth film of the Scream franchise, ‘Scream (2022)’. As Tara Carpenter, Jenna worked under directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, balancing horror and comic tones with an iconic scream sound. The film did justice to the franchise, showing both critical and commercial success, becoming the 28th-highest-grossing film of 2022. Her performance, acclaimed for its resilience and resolve, earned her an MTV Movie Award for Most Frightened Performance.

Simultaneously, Jenna explored her horror bona fides in Ti West’s film ‘X’, where her fearless and outrageous character was praised by Rotten Tomatoes and Comic Book Resources. Her diverse performances continued in ‘American Carnage’ and ‘Studio 666’, with the latter featuring the Foo Fighters. Despite being underused in some roles, as noted by the Los Angeles Times, her star quality shone through.

However, it was her casting as Wednesday Addams in Netflix’s comedy-horror series ‘Wednesday’ that truly showcased her talents. Working with John Papsidera and under the direction of Tim Burton, Jenna embraced a significant physical transformation, including hair cutting, black dye, and adapting Wednesday’s unique mannerisms, speaking style, and facial expressions. She even learned to play the cello and speak German, diving deep into the character originating from the Addams Family comic and 1960s television series.

The role was not without its challenges. Jenna faced overwhelming job stress, balancing character direction, dialogue, and maintaining her unique charisma. Her dedication paid off, earning her nominations for a Golden Globe Award, Screen Actors Guild Award, and Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series.

Her portrayal of Wednesday Addams further showcased her diverse personality, from her favorite color to her distinctive fashion style and makeup, resonating with audiences worldwide. As of March 2023, ‘Wednesday’ had grossed over $169 million against a budget of $33–35 million, as reported by Deadline Hollywood. Critics like Owen Gleiberman and Slant Magazine praised her surly spunk. Her star power even led to hosting Saturday Night Live in November 2023 despite scheduling conflicts with filming Wednesday.

Jenna’s journey continues with roles like Mabel in ‘Finestkind’ and her acclaimed performance in ‘The Fallout’ at the Toronto International Film Festival, as highlighted by Ty Burr. Despite her character’s challenges, like portraying a drug dealer, Jenna’s performances always bring a unique depth to her characters.

Upcoming Projects

Jenna Ortega’s horizon in the film industry is marked by an array of intriguing projects, showcasing her versatile talent. She’s set to star in Lionsgate and Point Grey Pictures’ ‘Miller’s Girl’, acting alongside Martin Freeman in a complex character study with risky material. This project is a romantic drama, promising to reveal new facets of Jenna’s acting prowess.

Another exciting venture is ‘Winter Spring Summer or Fall’, where Jenna will not only star but also executive-produce. The project’s details remain untitled, adding an aura of mystery. Additionally, she’s collaborating with Trey Edward Shults and music sensation The Weeknd, along with Barry Keoghan, in a highly anticipated film.

Her repertoire extends to the fantasy film realm with Burton’s ‘Beetlejuice 2’, a sequel to the iconic Beetlejuice (1988). This project signifies a reunion with Burton, under whom she brilliantly portrayed Wednesday Addams.

Ortega’s association with A24 leads her to ‘Alba’ in ‘Death of a Unicorn’, a dark comedy featuring Paul Rudd. Her role promises a blend of humor and depth, continuing her streak of diverse character portrayals.

Back on the small screen, Jenna’s journey as Wednesday Addams continues with the second season of ‘Wednesday’, where she takes on a more involved role as an executive producer. This marks a natural progression in her career, allowing her a more collaborative role in shaping the costumes, characters, and scripts of the beloved series.

Other Ventures

Beyond her acting career, Jenna Ortega has been actively involved in various other platforms, advocating for causes like immigrants and the LGBT community. She supported the Pride Over Prejudice DoSomething campaign, promoting pro-immigration and anti-discrimination messages. Her involvement with Teen Vogue further highlights her commitment to discussing culture, ethnicities, and women’s rights in America.

Jenna’s humanitarian side shone through during a meet-and-greet event for cancer patients at the Radio Disney Music Awards, where she auctioned a jacket once worn by the First Lady of the United States, Melania Trump. This gesture aimed to support immigrant children separated from their parents, though it stirred some media coverage by the Associated Press over poor judgement.

Her compassion extends to migrant children as well, evidenced by her participation in WE Day and various benefit concerts in the U.S. and Canada, supporting the WE Charity. In the realm of endorsements, Jenna became a brand ambassador for Neutrogena, promoting My Quinceañera Journey. Her collaborations with brands like Adidas and Dior, particularly for Adidas Sportswear and the #DareInGrisDior campaign, showcase her influence in fashion and beauty industries.

Artistry

Public Image

Jenna Ortega’s public image, as explored by Who What Wear in 2022, reveals her as poised, mature, and wise beyond her years. Her relatability to a wide audience is evident. Harper’s Bazaar, in 2023, described her as quiet and contemplative, reflecting her depth as both a person and a performer. Working with directors like Megan Park on ‘The Fallout’ and Burton, she has honed a unique style reminiscent of silent film acting, where her eyes convey profound emotion.

Recognized by The Hollywood Reporter as one of Hollywood’s Top 30 Stars Under Age 18, Jenna has become the Next Big Thing, especially among Gen Z’s scream queen aficionados, a title affirmed by MovieWeb. On Instagram and other social media platforms, she often discusses the comparing game and the manipulative nature of comments, showing a candid side of celebrity life.

Her role as Wednesday in the eponymous series brought out her sarcastic and dry humor, intertwined with a surprising vulnerability. This twist in her character portrayal has further cemented her status as a versatile and relatable figure in the public eye.

Fashion

Jenna Ortega has emerged as a style icon, especially noted for her red-carpet style. She often gravitates towards bright colors and patterned clothing, complemented with striking accessories. Her stylist, Enrique Melendez, plays a pivotal role in selecting outfits from designers like Red Valentino and Thom Browne, ensuring they are both age-appropriate and fashionable, yet stylistically interesting.

Unlike many Disney actresses known for their feminine, flirty, and frilly styles, Jenna’s role in ‘You’ marked a shift to heavier makeup and darker clothing. This change was picked up by various media publications, who labeled her style as goth glam. Vogue particularly noted her off-screen style, mirroring a dark, gothic fashion sensibility.

Her portrayal of Wednesday further influenced her personal taste in clothing, seamlessly blending her on-screen and off-screen fashion personas.

Influences

Jenna Ortega’s influences in her career are a blend of prominent figures and personal experiences. Dakota Fanning’s performance in the 2004 thriller film ‘Man on Fire’ left a lasting impression on Jenna, especially the dynamic between Dakota’s character and Denzel Washington. As a Puerto Rican herself, Jenna also finds inspiration in Elle Fanning’s diverse roles.

Among Disney stars, Selena Gomez and Zendaya stand out as significant influences, especially for their transitions from child stars to respected Latina actresses in the acting industry. These connections and influences have been vital in shaping her path.

In 2021, Jenna identified Riz Ahmed as a career role model, admiring his approach to acting, his manner of speaking, and his dedication to activism. These influences have deeply impacted her own approach to her craft and public persona.

Role choices

In a 2021 interview with Entertainment Tonight, Jenna Ortega expressed her determination to avoid being typecast or pigeonholed as an actor. She has consciously chosen diverse roles, seamlessly making the transition to more mature roles. Her affinity for horror works is particularly notable; she finds them comfortable and somewhat therapeutic.

By 2023, Jenna began over-indexing on the gore scale in her film choices, a move that might seem conflicted but aligns with her personal interests and growth as an actor. From a girl in the Coachella Valley to a versatile actress, her role choices reflect her journey and evolution in the acting world.

Personal life

In her personal life, Jenna Ortega places great value on her friends and family, considering their safety and well-being as paramount, especially when navigating the challenging parts of her career. Despite her rising fame, Jenna remains committed to keeping her feet on the ground, a testament to her maturity and perspective gained in an industry often dominated by adults. She has also adopted a vegan diet, transitioning from being a pescatarian, a choice influenced partly by her role in Wednesday.

Filmography

Film

YearTitleRoleNotesRef.
2013Iron Man 3Vice President’s daughter[176]
Insidious: Chapter 2Annie[177]
2014The Little Rascals Save the DayMary AnnDirect-to-video film[178]
2015After WordsAnna Chapa[24]
2018Saving FloraDawn[37]
2019WyrmSuzie[179]
2020The Babysitter: Killer QueenPhoebe Atwell[44]
2021Yes DayKatie Torres[48]
The FalloutVada Cavell[54]
2022ScreamTara Carpenter[60][180]
Studio 666Skye Willow[69]
XLorraine Day[73]
American CarnageCamila Montes[181]
2023Scream VITara Carpenter[182]
FinestkindMabel[183][184]
2024Miller’s Girl †Cairo SweetCompleted[121][185]
Beetlejuice 2 †Post-production[186][187]
TBADeath of a Unicorn †RidleyPost-production; also executive producer[188]
Untitled Trey Edward Shults film †TBAPost-production; also executive producer[124]
Winter Spring Summer or Fall †RemiPost-production; also executive producer[123]

Television

YearTitleRoleNotesRef.
2012RobGirlEpisode: “The Baby Bug”[74]
CSI: NYAimee MooreEpisode: “Unspoken”[74]
2013Days of Our LivesHayleyEpisode: “12062”[189]
2014RakeZoe LeonRecurring role[190]
2014–2019Jane the VirginYoung Jane Villanueva (age 12)Recurring role[191]
2015Richie RichDarcyMain role[23]
2016–2018Stuck in the MiddleHarley DiazLead role[192]
2016–2020Elena of AvalorPrincess IsabelMain voice role[193]
2016Elena and the Secret of AvalorPrincess IsabelVoice role; television film[194]
2018BizaardvarkIzzyEpisode: “The BFF (Before Frankie Friend)”[195]
2019–2023Big City GreensGabriella EspinosaVoice role; 6 episodes[196]
2019YouEllie AlvesMain role (season 2)[39]
2020Home Movie: The Princess BridePrincess ButtercupEpisode: “Chapter Six: The Fire Swamp”[197]
2020–2022Jurassic World Camp CretaceousBrooklynnMain voice role[46]
2022–presentWednesdayWednesday Addams / Goody AddamsLead role; also executive producer (season 2)[82]
2023Saturday Night LiveHerself (host)Episode: “Jenna Ortega/The 1975[198]

 

FAQ’s

How Much Money Does Jenna Ortega Make?

American actress Jenna Ortega has built an impressive net worth estimated at around $8 million. A significant portion of this comes from her starring role in the television show ‘Wednesday’, where she reportedly earns about $100,000 as her salary per episode. This marks a substantial increase from her earlier breakthrough role as Harley Diaz in the Disney Channel series ‘Stuck in the Middle’.

Who Is Jenna Ortega’s BF?

As an actress known for her privacy, Jenna Ortega is currently single. She has consistently shut down dating rumors, including a notable instance in August 2023. An Instagram gossip account, Deux Moi, received an anonymous tip suggesting Jenna was romantically involved with Johnny Depp. However, this rumor was swiftly dismissed by Jenna herself.

Has Jenna Ortega Ever Dated Anyone?

In 2018, Jenna Ortega was seen with Asher Angel at Just Jared’s Halloween Party, where they dressed as Ariana Grande and Pete Davidson, sparking rumors of being romantically linked. Additionally, Jenna appeared in singer Jacob Sartorius’ “Chapstick” music video, which included a kiss, further fueling dating speculations.

Who Cuts Jenna Ortega’s Hair?

Jenna Ortega’s hair is styled by renowned hairstylist David Stanwell, known for creating an effortless texture and an A+ undone finish.

What is Wednesday Addams hairstyle called?
Wednesday Addams’ hairstyle is famously known as the Rave’N Dance. It’s a look that can be recreated in Five Easy Steps, as detailed in the “Get The Look” guides.

Does Jenna Ortega Have Tattoos?

Disney Channel alum Jenna Ortega has no ink reflecting her super-gothic style from her Netflix character. In June 2023, she told WSJ Magazine her look is about leaning into character rather than her genuine style.