Why Jenna Ortega Says “It’s Harder to Find a Sense of Self” Amid Social Media

Jenna Ortega is getting candid about the isolating impact of younger people “finding their community online” rather than in person.

The Wednesday star recently chatted with the BBC about how the hit Netflix show’s upcoming second season may resonate with viewers, especially those trying to figure out “where we find our sense of community now” in the era of social media.

“I wasn’t around in the ’70s, but I hear stories of people knocking on their neighbors’ doors and the bikes going all throughout the city, and just expecting to meet someone at a certain time on a certain location,” she said, comparing it to the way young people interact in this day and age. “People don’t talk to each other in person. They’re interacting and finding their community online, which can be very isolating.”

Ortega added of people’s struggles in the social media era, “Also, there are so many voices and so many opinions that you’re exposed to, much more than you would typically be, or that humans are kind of meant to be exposed to. So, I think it’s harder to find a sense of self. Young people are struggling to find, ‘What makes my voice stand out? What is it about me in this world and this society today that gives me a sense of purpose or control or authority?’”

With Ortega returning to the small screen next week for Wednesday season two, the Beetlejuice Beetlejuice actress noted that the Addams Family’s unique and unconventional dynamic within society may be one reason why people are drawn to the show, as they seek connection.

“There’s great comfort in seeing people who are so obviously themselves, freely, and place priority where it matters, and that’s your family, that’s who’s in front of you, your special interests, that’s your strength and your courage and your confidence in your voice,” she explained. “It’s very easy now to get swept up in some sort of sheep mentality, and I think it’s so important for young people to see this family now more than ever.”

Wednesday season two, part one, premieres on Aug. 6, with part two releasing Sept. 3.