Jenna Ortega, recognized for her compelling range beyond horror roles, is set to star in several high-profile movies and series scheduled for release in 2026 and 2027. Her upcoming projects demonstrate her versatility across genres, confirming her status as one of Hollywood’s most promising talents.
Major Film Roles Coming in 2026
Ortega will headline the fantasy horror film The Great Beyond, directed by J.J. Abrams, with a release date set for November 13, 2026. The film features an ensemble cast including Glen Powell, Emma Mackey, Merritt Wever, Sophie Okonedo, and potentially Samuel L. Jackson. The story centers on a newlywed couple facing a supernatural force, and Abrams penned the screenplay himself. After completing post-production, the film promises intense supernatural drama combined with Abrams’ signature storytelling.
Also slated for 2026 is The Gallerist, a drama directed by Cathy Yan, who co-wrote the script with James Pedersen. Ortega stars alongside Natalie Portman, who also executive produces, with a supporting cast including Sterling K. Brown, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Daniel Brühl, Zach Galifianakis, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, and Charli XCX. The narrative follows a desperate gallerist’s unusual plan to sell a deceased individual as part of an Art Basel Miami scheme. Post-production on this film has been completed, indicating its release within 2026.
Another significant film is Klara and the Sun, adapted from Kazuo Ishiguro’s bestselling sci-fi novel. Directed by Taika Waititi, this film explores the relationship between Klara (portrayed by Ortega), an artificial friend powered by solar energy, and Josie, a girl battling an unknown illness. Amy Adams and Mia Tharia co-star, with additional appearances from Natasha Lyonne, Steve Buscemi, Simon Baker, and Harry Greenwood. The screenplay adaptation is by Dahvi Waller, and the film is currently in post-production, with plans for a 2026 release. This futuristic tale blends sci-fi and emotional discovery, highlighting Ortega’s range.
Return to Television with ‘Wednesday’ Season 3 in 2027
Ortega will reprise her role as Wednesday Addams in the third season of Netflix’s acclaimed supernatural comedy-drama series Wednesday, with filming beginning in February 2026. New cast member Eva Green joins as Aunt Ophelia, the rumored missing sister of Morticia Addams, adding fresh mystery to the storyline. The season will explore Wednesday’s renewed powers linked to Ophelia’s hidden past within Grandmama Hester’s mansion, portrayed by Joanna Lumley. Returning cast members include Catherine Zeta-Jones, Luis Guzmán, Fred Armisen, Emma Myers, Hunter Doohan, and others. This season is expected to continue blending dark humor with supernatural elements, intensifying the series’ intrigue.
Potential Collaboration in ‘Shutout’ with Robert De Niro
In a project currently in development, Ortega is set to star with Robert De Niro in Shutout, directed by David O. Russell and written by Alejandro Adams. The film centers on Jake Lejeune, a pool hustler whose passion is rekindled when he meets Mia, a gifted young player portrayed by Ortega. Together, they navigate the high-stakes and unforgiving environment of professional pool. Although promising on paper, recent information suggests this film may be shelved, casting uncertainty on its future.
“Can he steer Mia to greatness, or will her thirst for victory eclipse everything he has taught her?” – Alejandro Adams, Screenwriter
Jenna Ortega’s Expanding Artistic Range and Influence
From sci-fi and supernatural horror to intense drama and fantasy, Jenna Ortega’s diverse selection of roles is a testament to her expanding capabilities as an actress. Her involvement in projects alongside industry veterans such as Natalie Portman, Robert De Niro, and Samuel L. Jackson signals her growing influence in Hollywood. With the releases spanning from late 2026 through 2027, audiences and critics alike anticipate seeing how these roles will shape her career trajectory.
The release of The Great Beyond in late 2026 is expected to lead the wave, followed closely by the dramatic intensity of The Gallerist and the emotional depth of Klara and the Sun. Meanwhile, the highly anticipated third season of Wednesday will allow Ortega to deepen her connection with the fanbase that applauded her early work. Whether Shutout ultimately moves forward remains uncertain, but its premise has already generated interest.
Overall, Jenna Ortega’s upcoming projects showcase a calculated yet ambitious selection that combines commercial appeal with artistic challenge. Her choices hint at a deliberate pursuit of complex and varied characters, securing her place as a versatile and compelling figure in the entertainment industry.
