How Jenna Ortega Transformed Wednesday Addams into a Gen Z Icon

Jenna Ortega’s portrayal of Wednesday Addams in Netflix’s hit series 'Wednesday' has done more than revive a classic character — it has redefined her for a whole new generation. Once known primarily as the deadpan daughter of the Addams Family, Wednesday is now a full-blown Gen Z icon, thanks to Ortega’s performance, creative decisions, and cultural timing.

When the show premiered in 2022, audiences were immediately drawn to Ortega’s bold and emotionally complex version of Wednesday. Instead of just leaning into the character’s signature sarcasm and gothic aesthetic, Ortega brought depth and relatability. Her Wednesday is fiercely independent, emotionally guarded, and unapologetically different — traits that resonate deeply with Gen Z’s values of authenticity and self-expression.

Image Courtesy: Netflix

One of the biggest shifts came through Jenna Ortega's contributions to the role. She famously choreographed the viral “Wednesday dance” in the series, a moment that went viral on TikTok and helped propel the show into pop culture history. The dance — performed to The Cramps’ 'Goo Goo Muck' — was quirky, intense, and uniquely her own. It quickly became a global trend, with celebrities and influencers replicating her moves, further cementing her status as a trendsetter.

Jenna Ortega is a Gen Z Icon

Beyond the screen, Jenna Ortega herself has become a relatable figure for Gen Z. She’s been vocal about mental health, identity, and navigating fame at a young age, topics that matter deeply to her audience. Her authenticity and grounded nature contrast with traditional Hollywood glamour, making her both aspirational and approachable.

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Image Courtesy: Netflix

The show's writing also contributed to Wednesday’s modern appeal. With a storyline that combines supernatural mystery, coming-of-age challenges, and social alienation, Wednesday taps into the real-life anxieties and interests of today’s youth. Whether it's dealing with friendships, feeling like an outsider, or trying to find one’s place in the world, Ortega’s Wednesday reflects the internal struggles many Gen Z viewers face.

In short, Jenna Ortega didn’t just play Wednesday Addams — she reimagined her. Through a mix of personal influence, social media virality, and emotional nuance, she turned an iconic goth girl into a symbol of empowerment and individuality for a new era. Wednesday is no longer just a character; she's a cultural statement — and Gen Z is listening.

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