Jenna Ortega reveals the hidden pressure she faced as a child star

Jenna Ortega is reflecting on an uncomfortable part of growing up in Hollywood, revealing that her determination to succeed sometimes led her to ignore basic needs while working on set.

The Wednesday and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice actress recently spoke with Esquire about her childhood career and the pressure she placed on herself to avoid becoming a burden to anyone around her. Ortega began acting professionally as a child and said she was so grateful for every opportunity that she wanted to make sure she was always easy to work with. (EW.com⁠)

Ortega wanted to stay out of the way

Looking back at her early years, Ortega said she struggled to think of mistakes she had made as a young performer. She explained that she was extremely focused on maintaining her “game face” because she was excited to be working.

That mindset came with an unexpected cost. Ortega recalled that she would avoid asking for things on set, including food and water, because she did not want to interrupt anyone or appear demanding.

She explained that there were days when she would go without eating or drinking because she was determined not to be “in the way.” Ortega now sees that behavior differently, suggesting that failing to look after herself may have been the mistake she overlooked at the time. (EW.com⁠)

The pressure of childhood stardom

Ortega’s experience highlights a less visible side of being a young performer. Child actors can face long working days, unfamiliar environments and pressure to perform professionally despite still being children.

For Ortega, the desire to prove herself appears to have been particularly strong. She had wanted to act from a young age after being inspired by Dakota Fanning’s performance in Man on Fire. Her mother eventually helped her pursue auditions, including long drives between their California home and Los Angeles. (Vanity Fair⁠)

Her career eventually grew through projects including Jane the Virgin and Disney Channel’s Stuck in the Middle before she became a global star through Wednesday.

Learning to care for herself

Ortega’s comments show how her perspective has changed with age. What once felt like dedication now looks more like an example of how badly she wanted to avoid disappointing people.

Her story also serves as a reminder that young performers should not have to sacrifice their basic needs to prove they deserve opportunities. Adults responsible for productions have an important role in making sure children are supported and cared for while working.

Today, Ortega is in a very different position professionally. With major projects including Klara and the Sun and The Great Beyond ahead, she has the experience to approach her career with a greater understanding of her own boundaries and needs. (people.com⁠)i