Before taking on the world as Wednesday Addams, Jenna Ortega‘s early roles in Days of Our Lives and other unexpected projects have left fans amazed by her varied beginnings in Hollywood. Long before gaining recognition through Netflix, Ortega slipped onto the sets of iconic shows and films, quietly launching a career now celebrated worldwide.
Jenna Ortega’s Surprising Start on Days of Our Lives
Jenna Ortega, now recognized globally for her haunting performance in Tim Burton’s Wednesday, had a memorable appearance in the legendary soap opera Days of Our Lives during her childhood years. Many people know her as the enigmatic Wednesday Addams, but few recall her as Hayley—a young girl grappling with the loss of her mother in the fictional town of Salem.
Ortega’s role in Days of Our Lives added to her burgeoning repertoire at a time when the drama series was already making television history. The soap started in 1965 and ran until 2022, earning a reputation as one of the most enduring shows, complete with over 15,000 episodes. Ortega’s character, Hayley, struggled with grief and became silent after her mother’s passing. With outstanding grades but unable to speak, Hayley was gently guided back toward healing by characters Kristen DiMera, played by Eileen Davidson, and Father Eric.
One especially touching moment in the drama came when Kristen DiMera offered her comfort. The emotional reassurance Hayley received in that scene drew the attention and support of viewers worldwide, who recognized the sincerity and impact of the storyline.
The vast cast of Days of Our Lives has included many notable names over its decades-long run. Fans may be surprised to discover that Jensen Ackles, later known for Supernatural, also held a place in the soap’s ensemble. But the unexpectedness of Ortega’s early appearance can feel like “forbidden time travel,” transporting viewers back to a point before her eventual ascent to international stardom.
Early Hollywood Credits and the Marvel Connection
While Ortega’s breakout moment came via Netflix’s Wednesday, she started building her acting résumé with roles long before. Among these were cameo and minor parts that often slipped past the public’s radar, only to be rediscovered as fans delved into her past work. Astute followers may know that Ortega appeared in notable Hollywood films like Iron Man 3 and Insidious: Chapter 2, setting the foundation for bigger opportunities.
Her MCU appearance was particularly brief, but memorable for those who caught it. Ortega had a small role in the blockbuster Iron Man 3, released in 2013 and starring Robert Downey Jr. Although her lines ended up on the cutting room floor and her name was eventually omitted from the credits, she appeared on screen as the Vice President’s granddaughter. In a poignant scene, her character—cheerful and in a wheelchair—expressed joy while greeting her grandfather. Despite the quiet innocence of this role, the omission from official credits meant her contribution went widely unrecognized until later.
Ortega has since reflected publicly on her childhood MCU experience. She has expressed disappointment that her scene did not receive credit, conveying strong feelings about her treatment at the time. As a result, Ortega has stated she has no intentions of returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe after that experience, even as fans remain intrigued by her brief presence in the saga.
More Than Wednesday: Charting Ortega’s Ascent from Bit Parts to Iconic Roles
Ortega’s journey from background roles to leading lady status demonstrates a remarkable trajectory. As a child, she appeared in a range of Hollywood productions, sometimes without immediate recognition from audiences. Reflecting back, even devoted followers may find themselves marveling at how often Ortega graced familiar television screens and movies, only to go unnoticed at the time.
The actress’s ability to inhabit diverse roles—from the grieving Hayley on Days of Our Lives to characters in films like Iron Man 3 and Insidious: Chapter 2—helped prepare her for the demanding and spotlighted position she holds today. It was ultimately the gothic universe of Netflix’s Wednesday, helmed by Tim Burton, that pushed her into the glaring public eye and cemented her status among Hollywood’s new elite.
Yet, fans continue to find new reasons to appreciate her journey, with moments of realization that the star they now celebrate once appeared in unassuming roles—sometimes in projects as far-reaching as the Marvel Cinematic Universe and iconic American soaps.
Where to Find These Early Performances
For viewers inspired to revisit Ortega’s earliest work, Days of Our Lives, which featured her portrayal of Hayley, is available for streaming on Peacock. Iron Man 3, where Ortega briefly appeared as the Vice President’s granddaughter, can be streamed on Disney+ for audiences in the USA.
Jenna Ortega’s story stands as a testament to the unpredictable pathways that can lead to stardom. Her uncredited and early roles reveal perseverance and adaptability, offering inspiration for those seeking to understand the foundations of a celebrated Hollywood career.
