Jenna Ortega Gets Vulnerable About Her Struggles With Social Media

In a recent interview, Jenna Ortega expressed her struggles with social media. The actress got real about her experience as a female actress on media platforms.

In conversation with Elle Fanning for Variety’s Actors on Actors series, Jenna Ortega expanded on her complicated relationship with social media platforms.

Both actresses feel as if social media has shifted from a place where actors can express themselves candidly to a business of its own. Fanning mentioned how she failed to be selected for a part due to a lack of social media presence. The Great actress revealed that she has faced criticism for her lack of social media presence, stating that a casting member once responded to her: “You were great — but your numbers.”

Ortega gave some insights on what she calls “Disney 101,” which are media prepping sessions she attended during her time at Disney. She was instructed to “post regularly” and learned techniques on how to “get the most engagement.”

Even with all this prepping, the Emmy nominated actress shares that she finds it difficult to balance her authentic self with what is expected of her as a public figure on social media.

Ortega shared how she first approached social media exposure as a celebrity: “I want people to be able to get to know the people behind the camera and realize that people should never be put on a pedestal.” Despite striving to be real with her fans, Jenna Ortega has not always had the best experience in the public eye.

Ortega’s sentiment has changed overtime as some social media users have “preyed” on her vulnerability and “taken advantage of it.” The actress expressed how difficult it is to be personal while maintaining privacy and boundaries.

The full Variety interview can be viewed above. Readers interested in Jenna Ortega can see her in Wednesday, available on Netflix now.