Jenna Ortega has become one of the most promising young actors in Hollywood, demonstrating versatility and depth across a variety of genres. Her career began as a child actor, and over the years, she has taken on roles that have showcased her talent in both TV series and films. Below, we’ll take a look at some of Jenna Ortega’s best movie and TV roles, ranked according to their popularity, critical acclaim, and the impact they had on her career.

8. “Insidious: Chapter 2” (2013)

Jenna Ortega made her feature film debut with a small role in Insidious: Chapter 2. Though her appearance was brief, it marked her entry into the horror genre, a field where she would find much success in the years to come. Her role may not have been a significant one, but it demonstrated her potential at a young age and helped her gain experience working on a major horror film.

7. “The Babysitter: Killer Queen” (2020)

This horror-comedy film was one of Jenna’s breakout roles as a teenager. In The Babysitter: Killer Queen, she played the character of Phoebe, a mysterious new student who gets caught up in a supernatural battle. Ortega’s performance stood out for her ability to deliver both comedic and intense scenes, adding layers to the quirky and tough character. While the movie itself was met with mixed reviews, her performance earned praise and showed her knack for the horror-comedy genre.

6. “You” (2019)

Jenna Ortega joined the cast of You in its second season, portraying Ellie Alves, a teenager with a complex life who develops a friendship with Joe Goldberg (played by Penn Badgley). Her character is a street-smart aspiring filmmaker who finds herself drawn into Joe’s world of dark secrets. Ortega brought a mix of vulnerability and resilience to Ellie, which resonated with viewers. Her role in You marked a turning point in her career, as it allowed her to display her range in a more mature and darker storyline.

5. “Stuck in the Middle” (2016-2018)

One of Jenna Ortega’s first major roles was as Harley Diaz in the Disney Channel series Stuck in the Middle. In this family sitcom, she played the middle child in a large, lively family, a role that required comedic timing, charm, and relatability. The show helped Ortega build a younger fan base and established her as a talented young actress in the industry. Her portrayal of Harley, an inventive and resourceful girl trying to stand out among her siblings, was both endearing and inspiring for young viewers.

4. “Yes Day” (2021)

In this family-friendly Netflix comedy, Jenna played the role of Katie Torres, the eldest daughter in a family that embarks on a day filled with wild activities after their parents agree to say “yes” to every request. Ortega’s portrayal of a teenager striving for independence while still embracing family values was heartfelt and relatable. The movie was a commercial success on Netflix, further raising her profile and showcasing her ability to take on lighter, family-oriented roles.

3. “X” (2022)

In X, a horror film directed by Ti West, Jenna Ortega took on a more mature and intense role, playing Lorraine, a young woman involved in a group of filmmakers who set out to make an adult film on a rural Texas farm, only to encounter a terrifying threat. Her character’s evolution from shy and reserved to courageous and determined added depth to the film’s narrative. X allowed Ortega to step into the adult horror genre and proved her ability to deliver a gripping performance that resonated with audiences and critics alike.

2. “Scream” (2022)

Continuing her work in the horror genre, Jenna Ortega joined the iconic Scream franchise as Tara Carpenter in the 2022 reboot. Her character is pivotal to the storyline, and she delivered a powerful performance that stood out even amidst a star-studded cast. The film was both a commercial and critical success, with many praising Ortega’s ability to convey fear and vulnerability in a way that felt authentic. Scream was a significant addition to her filmography, as it solidified her reputation as a “scream queen” in the horror genre.

1. “Wednesday” (2022)

Without a doubt, Jenna Ortega’s role as Wednesday Addams in the Netflix series Wednesday is her most iconic performance to date. The show, directed by Tim Burton, reimagines the classic character from The Addams Family as a teenager attending Nevermore Academy, where she navigates friendships, supernatural mysteries, and a dark prophecy. Ortega’s portrayal of Wednesday is captivating; she brings a fresh take to the character by blending the character’s signature deadpan humor with emotional depth. Her commitment to the role, including learning to play the cello and mastering fencing, along with the memorable “Wednesday dance,” made the series a cultural phenomenon.

Honorable Mentions

Jenna Ortega’s filmography is continually expanding, with several other noteworthy performances deserving recognition. Her voice work as Princess Isabel in Disney’s Elena of Avalor (2016-2020) showcased her versatility in animation. Additionally, her role in The Fallout (2021), where she played a high school student dealing with trauma, was praised for its sensitive and realistic portrayal of adolescent grief.

Conclusion

Jenna Ortega’s career trajectory has been nothing short of impressive. From her early days on the Disney Channel to her recent acclaimed roles in horror films and the globally successful series Wednesday, she has consistently delivered standout performances that showcase her versatility and talent. As her career continues to evolve, there’s no doubt she will keep captivating audiences with her unique presence on screen.