Winona Ryder has been confirmed to appear as a guest star in the third season of Wednesday, reuniting with Jenna Ortega. This casting announcement was reported by Variety and signals an exciting convergence of creative talents behind the hit Netflix series.
A Reunion Rooted in Beetlejuice and Tim Burton Collaboration
The upcoming season will bring a Beetlejuice reunion to the screen. Ortega, who stars as Wednesday Addams, played Ryder’s daughter in the original 1988 film. Both Ryder and Ortega also share a connection through director Tim Burton, who helms and executive produces Wednesday. Notably, showrunners Al Gough and Miles Millar, who wrote the screenplay for Beetlejuice, continue their creative partnership on the show.
Tim Burton Welcomes Ryder’s Addition
Tim Burton expressed enthusiasm about Ryder joining the cast, stating,
“I am so happy that Winona has joined us, she fits right into this world,”
and added,
“And she’s a dear friend. I always feel lucky to work with her.”
Ryder’s Return to Netflix and Role Confidentiality
This role marks Ryder’s prompt return to Netflix after starring in the final season of Stranger Things, where she has appeared since 2016. While her character details for Wednesday remain undisclosed, the anticipation builds around her involvement.
Creators Praise Ryder’s Legendary Status
Al Gough and Miles Millar praised Ryder’s legacy, saying,
“When it comes to Outcasts, Winona Ryder is the GOAT,”
and highlighting her significant collaborations with Burton:
“Her legendary partnership with Tim Burton has defined some of cinema’s most unforgettable characters. We loved collaborating with her on ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ and couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome her to Nevermore.”
New Cast Additions and Ryder’s Career Highlights
Ryder is among the recent additions to the season, joining stars like Eva Green, who will play Ophelia, Morticia Addams’ sister. Ryder’s extensive work with Burton includes acclaimed films such as Edward Scissorhands and the animated Frankenweenie. She is a two-time Oscar nominee, recognized for her roles in The Age of Innocence and Little Women. Beyond Stranger Things, her television credentials include The Plot Against America and Show Me a Hero.
Notable Cast and Production Details for Wednesday
Alongside Ortega and Ryder, the series stars Emma Myers, Hunter Doohan, Joy Sunday, Moosa Mostafa, Georgie Farmer, Isaac Ordonez, Billie Piper, Luyanda Unati Lewis-Nyawo, Victor Dorobantu, Evie Templeton, and well-known actors such as Luis Guzmán, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Joanna Lumley, and Fred Armisen. The show is based on characters created by Charles Addams, with executive producers including Gough, Millar, and Burton. MGM Television produces the series.
Wednesday’s Success and What Lies Ahead
The second season of Wednesday premiered in two parts in August and September 2025, becoming a massive success on Netflix. It ranks as the fifth most-watched English-language season on the platform, while the first season remains the most-watched ever. Winona Ryder’s addition to season three suggests continued momentum for this popular series, promising to deepen its narrative and expand its celebrated cast.
