Why Didn't Jenna Ortega Ask Christina Ricci for Advice on Portraying Wednesday Addams?

Netflix's latest iteration of The Addams Family has garnered a lot of attention, especially for its young lead, Jenna Ortega, who took on the iconic role of Wednesday Addams. However, one question remains: why didn't Ortega seek advice from the legendary Christina Ricci, who previously played the character in both the original movie and subsequent episodes?

Establishing a Unique Wednesday

Ortega, who is known for her roles in films such as Dear Evan Hansen and Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, felt it was important to establish her own identity as Wednesday Addams. In an interview, she noted that she was aware of Ricci's extensive legacy in the role but wanted to bring a new perspective.

By embracing her own unique approach, Ortega was able to explore different facets of Wednesday's personality and story in the new series. This original take has been both praised and debated by fans, who are often divided on whether the new portrayal lives up to the original.

Why Would She Need To?

The portrayal of Wednesday Addams is purely up to the directors and writers of the new series, who have handled the character with some success. While it is natural to seek input from those who have walked in the shoes of the role, it is not strictly necessary. Furthermore, Ortega may have felt that staying true to her own interpretation was crucial to the integrity of her performance.

Wouldn't Lisa Loring Be More Appropriate?

Some might argue that Lisa Loring, the actress who first played Wednesday in the original series, would be a more suitable person to consult with or seek approval from. Loring's familiarity with the character and its roots may have offered invaluable insights to Ortega. However, it's important to note that each actress brings their own unique interpretation to the role, and honoring one's own vision can be just as important.

Ricci in the Cast: A Nice Touch, But a Tragic Loss

It's worth mentioning that Christina Ricci, who previously played Wednesday Addams, was cast in the new series. This gesture was appreciated by fans and critics alike, as Ricci's presence adds a layer of authenticity and nostalgia to the show. However, it's also a poignant reminder of the passing of Raul Julia, who played Gomez Addams and was a defining presence in the original series.

Another member of the cast, Luis Guzmán, who plays Donal Addams and replaced Raul Julia, has been criticized by some viewers. While his portrayal adds to the ensemble, the show has lost a major actor who was instrumental in bringing the Addams Family to life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the decision to not ask Christina Ricci for advice on portraying Wednesday Addams is a significant part of Jenna Ortega's unique approach to the role. While some may feel this choice was questionable, it ultimately sets the stage for the exploration of a fresh, contemporary interpretation of the beloved character. As the series progresses, fans will continue to weigh in on whether Ortega's portrayal lives up to the legacy established by her predecessors.