Jenna Ortega, a popular actress known for her roles in streaming shows, recently opened up about the dark side of social media. In an interview with Elle Fanning for Variety’s Actors on Actors series, Ortega discussed her experiences as a digital celebrity and how social media can have negative effects on mental health.
Ortega shared that even after starring in the Netflix series “Wednesday,” she faced challenges in auditions because some casting directors questioned her platform and level of fame. She explained that social media creates a constant comparison game and influences a bandwagon mentality, leading to manipulative behavior. The pressure to have a large following and be well-known can impact an actor’s career opportunities.
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The young actress admitted that she has become more guarded and anxious about expressing herself on social media. Given her naturally sarcastic and dry sense of humor, Ortega stated that it is easy for her to find herself in trouble. She emphasized the importance of people seeing celebrities as human beings and not putting them on pedestals.
During the interview, Ortega became emotional as she discussed the difficulties of being misconstrued online. She expressed how people prey on vulnerability and twist it in unexpected ways, causing her to feel out of control. Balancing honesty and personal well-being in the online world is a challenging task.
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Despite the challenges, Ortega mentioned that her relationship with social media has improved over the years. She still holds a strong desire to be genuine, honest, and authentic as a public figure. She shared her frustration with the industry’s tendency to mold actors into something they are not, such as being asked to have more energy or smile more. Ortega stated that she would rather be true to herself, even if it means showing vulnerability and raw emotions.
The actress acknowledged the difficulty of finding a balance between being honest and protecting her own mental health and safety. She recognized the importance of being human and genuine, even in an industry that often demands conformity and artificiality.
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In conclusion, Jenna Ortega’s candid interview shed light on the dark side of social media and its impact on mental health. She highlighted the pressures faced by digital celebrities, including the constant comparison game and the manipulation that can occur. Despite the challenges, Ortega remains committed to staying true to herself and being an authentic presence in the industry. Her story serves as a reminder that behind the online personas, celebrities are human beings with their own struggles and vulnerabilities.