Best known for her breakout role as a young star on The CW’s Jane the Virgin, Jenna Ortega—often simply referred to as Jenna—has built an impressive career in television and film. Before she became a household name, Jenna began acting at just eight years old, making early appearances on popular shows like Rob, Days of Our Lives, and CSI: New York. Growing up in Southern California’s Coachella Valley, Jenna was surrounded by family, including her three sisters—Mia, Aliyah, and Mariah—and two brothers, Isaac and Markus. She also shares her life with a beloved dog named Anna.
Jenna’s talent quickly caught the attention of casting directors, leading to roles in the FOX series Rake and a part in the comedy Richie Rich. But it was in 2016 when things really took off for Jenna. That year, she landed the lead role of Harley Diaz in Disney Channel’s Stuck in the Middle, a performance that showcased her charm and comedic timing. Around the same time, she voiced Princess Isabel in the animated series Elena of Avalor, further proving her range as a young actress.
As her career evolved, Jenna transitioned into more mature roles, most notably portraying Ellie Alves in the hit Netflix thriller You. Her performance was widely praised, solidifying her status as a rising star. Then, in 2022, Jenna truly stepped into the spotlight as Wednesday Addams in the wildly popular Netflix series Wednesday. The role not only highlighted her dramatic depth but also earned her critical acclaim and a massive global fanbase.
Alongside her success in series, Jenna starred in the Netflix family film Yes Day, which became a major hit with audiences. With roots in both Puerto Rican and Mexican heritage, Jenna Ortega continues to break barriers and inspire fans around the world. And through every project, whether big or small, Jenna brings authenticity, passion, and undeniable talent—making her one of the most exciting young performers of her generation.
Back in 2014, she landed the lead role in DreamWorksTV’s Know It All Nina, a fun and clever series that really showcased her talent. Then, fast forward to 2019, she stepped into the spotlight again by joining the sequel to the popular Netflix horror film The Babysitter—a role that definitely added some edge to her growing resume. In 2021, she delivered a powerful performance as Vada in the critically acclaimed film The Fallout, earning praise for her emotional depth and authenticity. She also made a strong impression as Tara Carpenter in the latest installments of the iconic Scream franchise, proving she can handle both drama and suspense with ease. And marking another major milestone, she took on hosting duties for Saturday Night Live for the very first time on March 11, 2023—an exciting moment that highlighted her versatility and rising star power.