Best Jenna Ortega Movies and TV Shows: A Rising Star

Jenna Ortega has quickly become a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood. Her captivating performances and versatility shine through in a diverse range of projects. Whether you’re craving horror chills, comedic moments, or coming-of-age drama, there’s a Jenna Ortega project waiting to entertain you. So, grab your popcorn and settle in as we explore some of her best works!

5. Stuck in the Middle (2016-2018) – Disney Channel

Summary: This heartwarming Disney Channel sitcom follows Harley Diaz, a resourceful and witty middle child navigating the chaos of a large family. Ortega portrays Harley's younger sister, Rachel, a mischievous and tech-savvy character.

Reason to watch: "Stuck in the Middle" offers a lighthearted and relatable portrayal of family life. Ortega brings comedic charm to Rachel's character, making her a scene-stealer. It's a perfect pick-me-up for viewers of all ages.

Pros: Fun family dynamics, witty humor, relatable characters.

Cons: Aimed at a younger audience, might lack complexity for some viewers.

Summary: This heartwarming Disney Channel sitcom follows Harley Diaz, a resourceful and witty middle child navigating the chaos of a large family. Ortega portrays Harley’s younger sister, Rachel, a mischievous and tech-savvy character.
Reason to watch: “Stuck in the Middle” offers a lighthearted and relatable portrayal of family life. Ortega brings comedic charm to Rachel’s character, making her a scene-stealer. It’s a perfect pick-me-up for viewers of all ages.
Pros: Fun family dynamics, witty humor, relatable characters.
Cons: Aimed at a younger audience, might lack complexity for some viewers.

4. Jane the Virgin (2014-2019) – The CW

Summary: This critically acclaimed dramedy follows Jane Villanueva, a young woman whose life is turned upside down when she’s accidentally artificially inseminated. Ortega plays Jane’s younger sister, Anna, who undergoes her own personal growth throughout the series.
Reason to watch: “Jane the Virgin” is a telenovela-inspired delight, blending humor, drama, and social commentary. Ortega showcases her dramatic range alongside the show’s established cast.
Pros: Engaging plot twists, heartwarming moments, strong female characters.
Cons: Telenovela format might not be for everyone, some plot elements can get a bit outlandish.

3. You (Season 2) (2019) – Netflix

Summary: This psychological thriller dives into the mind of Joe Goldberg, a stalker and serial killer who becomes obsessed with his new neighbor, Love Quinn (Victoria Pedretti). Ortega appears as Joe's neighbor's younger sister, Ellie, a perceptive teenager who becomes suspicious of Joe. Reason to watch: "You" is a suspenseful ride with a captivating central performance by Penn Badgley. Ortega delivers a chilling portrayal of Ellie, adding another layer of tension to the narrative. Pros: Gripping psychological thriller, excellent performances, shocking twists. Cons: Disturbing subject matter, violence, not for the faint of heart.

Summary: This psychological thriller dives into the mind of Joe Goldberg, a stalker and serial killer who becomes obsessed with his new neighbor, Love Quinn (Victoria Pedretti). Ortega appears as Joe’s neighbor’s younger sister, Ellie, a perceptive teenager who becomes suspicious of Joe.
Reason to watch: “You” is a suspenseful ride with a captivating central performance by Penn Badgley. Ortega delivers a chilling portrayal of Ellie, adding another layer of tension to the narrative.
Pros: Gripping psychological thriller, excellent performances, shocking twists.
Cons: Disturbing subject matter, violence, not for the faint of heart.

2. X (2022) – A24

Summary: This audacious horror film from director Ti West follows a group of filmmakers who become the target of a murderous couple on a secluded Texas ranch. Ortega portrays one of the young filmmakers, Maxine, a determined and ambitious cinematographer.

Reason to watch: "X" offers a fresh take on the slasher genre, filled with homages to classic horror films. Ortega's performance is fierce and memorable, showcasing her ability to handle intense material.

Pros: Homage to classic horror, suspenseful atmosphere, strong performances.

Cons: Graphic violence, might be too disturbing for some viewers.

Summary: This audacious horror film from director Ti West follows a group of filmmakers who become the target of a murderous couple on a secluded Texas ranch. Ortega portrays one of the young filmmakers, Maxine, a determined and ambitious cinematographer.
Reason to watch: “X” offers a fresh take on the slasher genre, filled with homages to classic horror films. Ortega’s performance is fierce and memorable, showcasing her ability to handle intense material.
Pros: Homage to classic horror, suspenseful atmosphere, strong performances.
Cons: Graphic violence, might be too disturbing for some viewers.

1. Wednesday (2022 – Present) – Netflix

Summary: This Tim Burton-directed series reimagines the iconic Wednesday Addams from the Addams Family. Ortega takes center stage as Wednesday, a sardonic and intelligent teenager navigating the trials and tribulations of Nevermore Academy.

Reason to watch: "Wednesday" is a visually stunning and darkly comedic coming-of-age story. Ortega perfectly embodies the character of Wednesday, capturing her deadpan humor and gothic aesthetic.

Pros: Tim Burton's signature style, witty dialogue, strong central performance.

Cons: Might feel slow-paced for some viewers, limited character development beyond Wednesday.

Summary: This Tim Burton-directed series reimagines the iconic Wednesday Addams from the Addams Family. Ortega takes center stage as Wednesday, a sardonic and intelligent teenager navigating the trials and tribulations of Nevermore Academy.
Reason to watch: “Wednesday” is a visually stunning and darkly comedic coming-of-age story. Ortega perfectly embodies the character of Wednesday, capturing her deadpan humor and gothic aesthetic.
Pros: Tim Burton’s signature style, witty dialogue, strong central performance.
Cons: Might feel slow-paced for some viewers, limited character development beyond Wednesday.

Bonus Picks!

The Fallout (2021) – HBO Max: A poignant drama exploring the aftermath of a school shooting, with Ortega delivering a powerful performance as a grieving student.
Scream (2022) & Scream VI (2023) – Paramount Pictures: These slasher films revitalize the “Scream” franchise, with Ortega playing a pivotal role as a horror movie fanatic thrust into real-life danger.
Yes Day (2021) – Netflix: A lighthearted family comedy where parents (Jennifer Garner and Edgar Ramirez) agree to say “yes” to their kids’ requests for a day, leading to hilarious consequences. Ortega delivers a comedic performance as the rebellious teenage daughter.

This list offers a glimpse into the diverse filmography of Jenna Ortega. From heartwarming comedy to chilling horror, Ortega proves her talent across various genres. So, whether you’re looking for a laugh-out-loud moment, a suspenseful thrill, or a coming-of-age story with a dark twist, there’s a Jenna Ortega project waiting to capture your attention.