Jenna Ortega's Journey from Child Star to Leading Lady Exploring Her Height and Inspiring Others

Jenna Ortega's Journey to Stardom

At just 20 years old, Jenna Ortega has quickly become one of the most sought-after young actresses in Hollywood. Ever since breaking out as a child actor on shows like Jane the Virgin and Stuck in the Middle, Ortega has shown immense talent and versatility on screen. However, her rapid rise to fame hasn't come without its challenges, including dealing with issues around her height and body image.

Getting Her Start as a Child Actor

Born in Coachella Valley, California in 2002, Ortega's acting career began at the young age of 6. She landed small roles in television shows like CSI: NY and Rob before getting her big break in 2012 on Jane the Virgin. On the hit CW show, Ortega played the main character Jane's younger version in flashback scenes. This role helped showcase her skills and opened doors to more substantial parts.

In 2016, Ortega was cast as Harley Diaz, the lead character on Disney Channel's Stuck in the Middle. As one of the few Latinx lead characters on the network, Ortega relished the opportunity to play a smart, confident young girl that audiences could relate to. While on the show, she learned on-set lessons about acting and responsibility that would serve her well moving forward.

Becoming a Rising Star in Film

After Stuck in the Middle ended in 2018, Ortega began transitioning from teen TV star to leading Hollywood actress. She landed a key role in the slasher film The Babysitter: Killer Queen in 2020, showing she could hold her own in more mature, horror-centric projects. That same year, Ortega appeared in the hit Netflix movie Yes Day starring Jennifer Garner.

However, it was her casting as the lead character in the 2022 horror film Scream that truly signaled Ortega's star potential. As the franchise's first Latina lead, she earned rave reviews for her compelling performance. She went on to land high-profile roles in the Tim Burton Netflix series Wednesday and the upcoming Marvel movie The Electric State.

Dealing with Height and Body Image Scrutiny

As her fame grew, Ortega also had to learn to handle increased media and public scrutiny, especially surrounding her height and body image. Standing at just 5 feet tall, she often saw her petite stature highlighted in a sometimes negative light.

"Being labeled as tiny, little, short, petite—all of that felt very repetitive. I have really bad posture so I started to think, 'Do I need to stand up straighter? Do I need to be taller?' It made me feel like if I didn't fit this sort of criteria, I wasn't capable of the work that I'm doing and being where I'm at," Ortega shared in an interview.

However, over time, she has grown more comfortable embracing her height and focusing on positive qualities that have nothing to do with her outward appearance. "As I've gotten older...I've learned to make my peace with my height and my body...I just have to continue being myself and hopefully inspire other young girls out there," Ortega explained.

Using Her Platform to Empower Others

Now that she's established as a leading lady, Ortega hopes to use her platform to empower others, especially young Latinx and women of color in the industry. "To be in this position and...open doors for people who may not otherwise get the opportunity is an honor," she stated.

Ortega also continues to speak out about issues like body image and mental health to help fans. "It's okay to not feel okay...Focus on the light and what motivates you," she often reminds her followers.

At just 20, Jenna Ortega has already accomplished so much. However, it's clear her bright future is only just beginning. With her prodigious talent and commitment to uplifting others, there is no limit to how high Ortega can continue to soar.

FAQs

How old is Jenna Ortega?

Jenna Ortega is currently 20 years old. She was born on September 27, 2002 in Coachella Valley, California.

What was Jenna Ortega's first big acting role?

Ortega's first major acting role was as Young Jane on the hit CW show Jane the Virgin. She played the younger version of the main character in flashback scenes from 2012-2015.

What shows and movies has Jenna Ortega been in?

Some of Ortega's biggest roles have been on shows like Jane the Virgin, Stuck in the Middle, You, and Wednesday. Her movie credits include Iron Man 3, Insidious: Chapter 2, The Babysitter: Killer Queen, Yes Day, and Scream (2022).

How tall is Jenna Ortega?

Jenna Ortega is reportedly around 5 feet or 152 cm tall. Her petite height has been a frequent topic of discussion online and in media interviews.

What is Jenna Ortega's background?

Ortega is of Mexican and Puerto Rican descent. She was born and raised in Southern California. Being one of the few Latina lead actresses in Hollywood, Ortega hopes to continue opening doors for Latinx representation.