Wednesday Season 2: Will Jenna Ortega & Catherine Zeta-Jones Return? Netflix Update

Jul 31, 2025

Wednesday Season 2: The Burning Question of Casting Returns

The phenomenal success of Netflix's Wednesday has left fans worldwide eagerly anticipating the second season. At the forefront of everyone's minds is the question: Will Jenna Ortega return as the titular Wednesday Addams, and will Catherine Zeta-Jones grace our screens once again as the iconic Morticia Addams? This article dives deep into the likelihood of their return, analyzing various factors, casting rumors, and what we know so far about the upcoming season.

Jenna Ortega: The Heart and Soul of Wednesday

Jenna Ortega's portrayal of Wednesday Addams was nothing short of a cultural phenomenon. Her deadpan delivery, unique physicality, and nuanced understanding of the character resonated deeply with audiences. Her performance earned her critical acclaim, a Golden Globe nomination, and solidified her status as a rising star. Therefore, the question of whether she'll return for Season 2 isn't just a matter of casting; it's about the very essence of the show.

Why Jenna Ortega's Return is Highly Probable

Central to the Narrative: Wednesday is the protagonist; the show revolves entirely around her experiences at Nevermore Academy and her exploration of her psychic abilities. Removing her would fundamentally alter the show's premise.
Critical Acclaim and Recognition: Ortega's performance was a major contributing factor to the show's success. Netflix would be hard-pressed to find a replacement that could capture the same magic.
Ortega's Involvement Beyond Acting: Jenna Ortega has expressed a desire to be more involved in the creative process for Season 2, including influencing the storylines and character development. This indicates a strong commitment to the project. In an interview with Elle Fanning for Variety's Actors on Actors series, Ortega expressed her desire to explore a darker side of Wednesday Addams in the second season.
Contractual Obligations: While details of her contract are confidential, it's highly likely that Ortega signed a multi-season contract, ensuring her return for at least one or two more seasons.

Potential Challenges to Ortega's Return

Despite the high probability, there are potential challenges that could impact Jenna Ortega's return. These include:

Scheduling Conflicts: Ortega's rising popularity has led to numerous offers for other projects. Balancing her commitments to Wednesday with other film and television roles could prove challenging. She starred in Scream VI shortly after the first season of Wednesday aired and has several other projects in development.
Creative Differences: While Ortega has expressed a desire for more creative control, disagreements with the showrunners or Netflix executives could arise, potentially leading to conflicts. However, given her integral role, it's likely that her concerns will be taken seriously.

The Verdict on Jenna Ortega's Return

Considering all factors, it is highly likely that Jenna Ortega will return as Wednesday Addams in Season 2. Her performance is essential to the show's success, and her involvement in the creative process suggests a strong commitment to the project. While scheduling conflicts could pose a challenge, these are unlikely to derail her return entirely.

Catherine Zeta-Jones: Embodying the Elegance of Morticia Addams

Catherine Zeta-Jones' portrayal of Morticia Addams was a masterclass in understated elegance and dark humor. She perfectly captured the character's iconic look and demeanor, adding her own unique flair to the role. While her screen time in the first season was limited, her presence was impactful and memorable. The question now is whether she will have a more prominent role in Season 2.

Reasons to Expect Catherine Zeta-Jones' Return

Iconic Character: Morticia Addams is a crucial part of the Addams Family dynamic. While Wednesday is the central character, her relationship with her mother is a key element of the show's overall narrative.
Fan Appreciation: Zeta-Jones' portrayal was widely praised by fans and critics alike. Her performance added a layer of sophistication and gravitas to the show.
Potential for Expanded Role: The first season primarily focused on Wednesday's experiences at Nevermore. Season 2 could delve deeper into the Addams Family dynamic, providing more opportunities for Morticia to shine. Showrunners have hinted at exploring the Addams family history further, which could involve extended flashbacks or storylines featuring Morticia and Gomez more prominently.
Zeta-Jones' Interest: While she hasn't explicitly confirmed her return, Zeta-Jones has expressed her enjoyment of playing Morticia Addams, which suggests a willingness to reprise the role.

Factors that Could Affect Zeta-Jones' Return

Storyline Relevance: The extent of Zeta-Jones' involvement in Season 2 will largely depend on the direction of the storyline. If the focus remains primarily on Wednesday's adventures outside of the family, her role may remain limited.
Scheduling Conflicts: Like Ortega, Zeta-Jones is a sought-after actress with a busy schedule. Balancing her commitments to Wednesday with other projects could be a challenge.
Negotiations: Contract negotiations could also play a role. If Zeta-Jones is seeking a larger role or a higher salary, reaching an agreement with Netflix may take time.

Predicting Catherine Zeta-Jones' Involvement in Season 2

While Catherine Zeta-Jones' return isn't as certain as Jenna Ortega's, there's a strong possibility that she will reprise her role as Morticia Addams in Season 2. The character is integral to the Addams Family dynamic, and Zeta-Jones' performance was widely praised. The extent of her involvement will likely depend on the storyline and her availability, but fans can reasonably expect to see Morticia Addams back on their screens.

Other Returning Cast Members: Who Else Can We Expect?

Beyond Ortega and Zeta-Jones, several other cast members played crucial roles in the success of Wednesday Season 1. Here's a look at the likelihood of their return:

Likely Returns:

Gwendoline Christie as Principal Larissa Weems: While Weems seemingly met her demise in Season 1, the world of Wednesday is filled with possibilities. Flashbacks, dream sequences, or even a miraculous resurrection could bring Christie back to the show. Her character was a fan favorite, and her dynamic with Wednesday was a highlight of the first season. While her death seemed definitive, the show is known for its twists and turns, leaving room for speculation about her potential return in some form.
Luis Guzmán as Gomez Addams: As the patriarch of the Addams Family, Gomez is an important figure in Wednesday's life. Guzmán's portrayal was well-received, and his return is highly probable.
Isaac Ordonez as Pugsley Addams: As Wednesday's younger brother, Pugsley provides comic relief and a foil to her serious demeanor. Ordonez's return is likely, especially if the show delves deeper into the Addams Family dynamic.
Emma Myers as Enid Sinclair: Wednesday's roommate and best friend, Enid, played a pivotal role in the first season. Myers' performance was a breakout success, and her return is almost guaranteed. The developing relationship between Wednesday and Enid is a key storyline that is expected to be further explored in Season 2.
Hunter Doohan as Tyler Galpin: Despite his villainous turn as the Hyde monster, Tyler's story is far from over. His escape at the end of Season 1 leaves the door open for his return, potentially as a recurring character. The complex relationship between Wednesday and Tyler, even with his Hyde reveal, is something fans will likely want to see explored further.
Percy Hynes White as Xavier Thorpe: Although Xavier faced accusations and suspicion in Season 1, he ultimately proved his innocence. His connection to Wednesday and his psychic abilities make him a valuable character, and his return is probable.

Potential Returns (Less Certain):

Christina Ricci as Marilyn Thornhill/Laurel Gates: Ricci's performance was a highlight of the first season, but her character's fate seemed sealed. However, given Ricci's history with the Addams Family (she famously played Wednesday in the 1990s films), a cameo or appearance in flashbacks cannot be ruled out.
Jamie McShane as Sheriff Donovan Galpin: While Sheriff Galpin was a key figure in the first season's mystery, his role in Season 2 will depend on the new storyline. He could return as a recurring character, especially if the mystery involves the town of Jericho.

What to Expect from Wednesday Season 2: Plot Predictions and Storyline Theories

While plot details for Wednesday Season 2 are being kept tightly under wraps, several hints and clues have emerged, allowing fans to speculate about the potential storylines. Here are some of the most popular theories and predictions:

Exploring the Addams Family History

One of the most anticipated aspects of Season 2 is the potential to delve deeper into the Addams Family history. Showrunners have hinted at exploring the origins of the family's unique traits and traditions. This could involve flashbacks or storylines featuring previous generations of Addamses. Catherine Zeta-Jones' Morticia could play a crucial role in these storylines, providing insights into the family's past.

Wednesday's Continued Psychic Development

Season 1 saw Wednesday grappling with her newfound psychic abilities. Season 2 will likely continue this exploration, with Wednesday learning to control and harness her powers. This could involve encounters with other psychics or supernatural entities. Jenna Ortega's input on the storyline could lead to a darker and more complex portrayal of Wednesday's powers.

The Lingering Threat of Tyler Galpin/The Hyde

Despite being apprehended at the end of Season 1, Tyler's escape leaves a lingering threat. He is still out there, and his Hyde persona remains a danger. Season 2 could see Wednesday and her friends tracking down Tyler or dealing with the consequences of his actions. The nature of Tyler's transformation and the forces that control him could also be explored further.

The Development of Wednesday and Enid's Relationship

The unlikely friendship between Wednesday and Enid was a highlight of the first season. Season 2 will likely continue to develop this relationship, exploring the challenges and rewards of their contrasting personalities. The dynamic between Ortega and Myers is a key element of the show's appeal, and their on-screen chemistry is expected to be further utilized in Season 2.

A New Mystery at Nevermore Academy

While the first season's mystery was resolved, Nevermore Academy is likely to be the setting for a new and equally intriguing mystery. This could involve new students, hidden secrets, or supernatural threats. The mystery will likely be intertwined with Wednesday's personal journey and her ongoing development as a psychic detective.

Exploring Other Outcasts and Supernatural Creatures

Season 1 introduced a variety of outcasts and supernatural creatures. Season 2 could expand on this world, introducing new and fascinating characters. This could involve exploring different types of supernatural abilities or delving into the history and culture of the outcast community.

Wednesday Season 2: Production Updates and Release Date Speculations

As of late 2024, production on Wednesday Season 2 is underway, with the release date tentatively set for late 2024 or early 2025. The delay in production was primarily due to the writers' strike and actors' strike in 2023. However, with those issues resolved, filming is now progressing. While Netflix has not officially announced a release date, industry experts predict that Season 2 will likely premiere in the fall or winter of 2024, allowing ample time for post-production and marketing.

Filming Locations and Behind-the-Scenes Insights

The first season of Wednesday was primarily filmed in Romania, utilizing the country's stunning landscapes and historic architecture to create the gothic atmosphere of Nevermore Academy and the surrounding town of Jericho. For Season 2, there has been a shift in filming locations. While some scenes may still be shot in Romania, a significant portion of the production is expected to take place in Ireland. This change in location could bring a fresh visual aesthetic to the show, while still maintaining its dark and atmospheric tone.

Official Announcements and Sneak Peeks

Netflix has been strategic in releasing information about Wednesday Season 2, generating buzz and anticipation among fans. While official trailers and plot synopses are still under wraps, small teasers and behind-the-scenes glimpses have been shared through social media and interviews with the cast and crew. These snippets provide tantalizing hints about the new season, fueling speculation and excitement among the fan base. Jenna Ortega and other cast members have been active in sharing updates on their social media accounts, offering glimpses into the filming process and the camaraderie among the cast.

The Impact of Wednesday on Netflix and Pop Culture

Wednesday was a massive success for Netflix, breaking viewership records and becoming one of the platform's most popular shows of all time. The show's unique blend of dark humor, supernatural mystery, and coming-of-age drama resonated with audiences of all ages. Jenna Ortega's portrayal of Wednesday Addams became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless memes, TikTok trends, and Halloween costumes. The show's success has solidified Netflix's position as a leading provider of original content and has paved the way for other dark and quirky series.

The Show's Influence on Fashion and Beauty Trends

Wednesday had a significant impact on fashion and beauty trends. Wednesday Addams' gothic style, characterized by dark clothing, braided hair, and pale complexion, became a popular aesthetic among young people. Fashion retailers reported a surge in sales of black dresses, combat boots, and other items associated with Wednesday's look. The show also inspired a resurgence in interest in gothic makeup and hairstyles. The character's influence extended beyond fashion, impacting music, art, and other forms of creative expression.

Wednesday's Role in Promoting Representation and Diversity

Wednesday was praised for its diverse cast and its portrayal of outcasts and marginalized groups. The show featured actors from various racial and ethnic backgrounds, and its characters represented a range of sexual orientations and gender identities. The show's themes of acceptance and belonging resonated with audiences who felt excluded or different. Wednesday demonstrated the importance of representation in media and its power to create a more inclusive and understanding society.

Conclusion: The Future Looks Bright for Wednesday Season 2

Wednesday Season 2 is one of the most anticipated television events of the coming year. With Jenna Ortega and potentially Catherine Zeta-Jones at the helm, the show is poised to deliver another season of dark humor, supernatural mystery, and compelling character development. The new storylines, filming locations, and behind-the-scenes insights have generated immense excitement among fans, and the anticipation is building as the release date draws closer. Whether you're a long-time fan of the Addams Family or a newcomer to the world of Wednesday, Season 2 is sure to be a captivating and unforgettable experience. Stay tuned for more updates and announcements as production progresses, and get ready to delve back into the darkness and intrigue of Nevermore Academy.