The supernatural comedy series Wednesday, produced by Netflix and released in 2022, quickly became a major hit thanks to its compelling screenplay and strong performances. Jenna Ortega, who stars as the main character, has experienced a significant salary increase for the upcoming second season, set to premiere on August 6, 2025. Reports reveal that Ortega will now earn an impressive $250,000 per episode, marking a notable jump from her pay in the debut season.
Impact of the First Season’s Success on Jenna Ortega’s Pay
In its first week alone, Wednesday amassed over 341 million hours of viewing, securing its status as the most-watched English-language show on Netflix. Within just five days, the series was viewed for nearly 6 billion minutes, highlighting its widespread popularity. Jenna Ortega’s portrayal of Wednesday Addams was central to this acclaim, with critics and viewers alike praising her performance.
Initially, Ortega earned $30,000 per episode while filming the first season. However, by its conclusion, she was making $240,000 for eight episodes. This rapid increase reflected both her growing star power and the show’s enormous success.
The London Premiere Showcases Jenna Ortega’s New Look
The excitement surrounding the new season was palpable during its London premiere on July 30, 2025. Jenna Ortega stunned attendees with a bold transformation, featuring bleached eyebrows and a sheer snakeskin dress. This appearance heightened anticipation for the season while media outlets unveiled details about her remarkable salary raise.
Massive Salary Increase Positions Jenna Ortega Among Top Actresses
Ortega’s new rate of $250,000 per episode for season two places her among the highest-paid actresses of her generation. This substantial boost highlights the industry recognition of her talent and the financial success of the series. The jump in pay not only rewards her work on Wednesday but also cements her standing in Hollywood’s competitive landscape.
Storyline of ‘Wednesday’: Unraveling Mysteries at Nevermore Academy
The show centers on Wednesday Addams, a teenage girl who begins attending Nevermore Academy, the same peculiar school her mother, Morticia Addams, once attended. The academy serves as a refuge for outcasts and is shrouded with numerous dark secrets. Throughout the series, Wednesday must navigate this strange world, encountering murder, mystery, and supernatural elements.
Jenna Ortega’s Journey from Child Actor to Leading Star
Jenna Ortega started her career very young, appearing in a toothpaste commercial at age nine. With strong support from her parents, who come from non-entertainment backgrounds, she steadily built a career in television and film. Her debut on television was in 2012 with the sitcom Rob, followed by a small role in the 2013 movie Iron Man 3.
Her breakthrough came in 2014 when she portrayed the young Jane in the critically acclaimed show Jane the Virgin. Over time, she expanded her portfolio with roles in movies such as Scream, X, and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. Ortega’s talent earned her nominations for the Golden Globe Awards for Best Actress in a Television Series and several other honors. Today, she reportedly holds a net worth of $5 million, reflecting her growing success.
Why Jenna Ortega’s Salary Surge Matters in the Entertainment Industry
The dramatic increase in Jenna Ortega’s salary from $30,000 per episode in season one to $250,000 per episode in season two illustrates the broad shifts occurring in the entertainment world. It showcases how streaming platforms like Netflix invest heavily in young talent who drive audience engagement and critical acclaim. Ortega’s rise can inspire other emerging actors aspiring to turn breakout roles into long-lasting careers with deserved compensation.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for ‘Wednesday’ and Jenna Ortega’s Career
As Wednesday prepares for its highly anticipated return in August 2025, Jenna Ortega’s elevated status and pay signal the show’s continued impact on popular culture. The series’ unique blend of supernatural thriller with dark comedy alongside Ortega’s magnetic performance creates expectations for another successful season.
This growth not only strengthens Ortega’s foothold as a leading actress but also emphasizes Netflix’s investment in original content featuring dynamic young stars. Fans and industry watchers will be keen to see how this momentum carries forward into future projects for Ortega and the potential further evolution of the Wednesday franchise.
