I spent days on set without eating or drinking, I didn't take care of myself. Being an actress? When I told my parents about it, they laughed in my face: Jenna Ortega speaks

Jenna Ortega, the star of Netflix’s Wednesday, has spoken candidly about her early experiences in the entertainment industry, revealing how she neglected her health during her formative years in Hollywood. In an interview with Esquire, Ortega described how she spent days on set without eating or drinking, prioritizing work over self-care. She admitted that this approach was partly due to her intense dedication to her craft and a desire to avoid disrupting others. At just 13 years old, she secured a lead role in the Disney Channel sitcom Harley in Mezzo and took her commitment to extremes, skipping meals and hydration to stay focused. “Maybe that was my mistake,” she reflected, acknowledging that neglecting her well-being had long-term consequences. Ortega’s journey into acting began at a young age, and she quickly became immersed in the world of film and television. Her parents were initially skeptical of her career choice. When she told them she wanted to become an actress, they laughed in her face, which she described as a turning point. It fueled her determination, reinforcing her resolve to pursue acting despite the lack of support. “I’ve never stopped because I’m very stubborn,” she said, highlighting her perseverance through challenges both personal and professional. In recent years, Ortega has faced moments of doubt. During a conversation with the podcast Big Bro, she mentioned considering leaving acting behind. The decision came as she prepared to enter high school, believing that her time in the spotlight had passed. However, her path changed when she was cast in the series You. “I went into that set, loved it, and had so much fun,” she recalled. This experience reignited her passion for acting, leading her to reconsider her future in the industry. “I thought there was no reason why I should give up everything,” she said, expressing her renewed commitment to her career. The new season of Wednesday marks a pivotal moment in Ortega’s career. As the third season begins, the show explores deeper themes related to adolescence, family dynamics, and the transition to adulthood. Ortega, who plays the titular character, noted that the storyline reflects the struggles of teenagers navigating complex relationships and societal expectations. “It’s especially meaningful because the characters are now in their final year of high school,” she explained. “They’re facing more direct conflicts about growing up, what it means to be an adult, and how we imagine our futures.” Ortega’s openness about her past highlights the pressures many young actors face in the industry. Her willingness to share these experiences offers insight into the emotional toll of early fame and the importance of balancing ambition with self-care. As she continues to grow both personally and professionally, her story serves as a reflection of the broader challenges faced by performers entering the spotlight at a young age. With the upcoming season of Wednesday, audiences can expect a deeper exploration of identity, resilience, and the complexities of becoming an adult.