Jenna Ortega, the star of Netflix’s hit series Wednesday, is once again addressing the wild rumors that linked her to actor Johnny Depp, a man 40 years her senior. Last year, speculation ran rampant after a celebrity gossip account claimed the two were spotted together. The 21-year-old actress has been left baffled by the persistent chatter, which she recently described as “insane.”
In a recent interview with BuzzFeed, Ortega recalled the moment the rumor took her by surprise. While on the set of her upcoming film Death of a Unicorn, co-star Richard E. Grant jokingly asked her about the supposed relationship. Ortega laughed off the comment, stating, “I don’t know that person.”
The rumor, which originated from Deux Moi, a popular gossip account, suggested that Ortega and Depp were romantically involved and possibly working together on Tim Burton’s upcoming Beetlejuice sequel. However, Depp’s representatives were quick to dispel these claims, releasing a statement in August 2023, asserting that the actor had no relationship, personal or professional, with Ortega. The statement further expressed Depp’s dismay over what was seen as a malicious attempt to tarnish his reputation.
Ortega, who gained widespread recognition through her role in Wednesday, has been in the entertainment industry for over a decade. Her association with Depp seemed more plausible to some, given her work with Tim Burton and the fact that Depp had previously starred in Burton’s Edward Scissorhands. Additionally, Depp’s history with actress Winona Ryder, who also stars in the Beetlejuice sequel, added fuel to the rumor mill.
Reflecting on the bizarre rumor, Ortega shared a humorous tidbit with BuzzFeed, revealing that her first crush was none other than former President Barack Obama during his first election campaign.
As Ortega prepares to take on her role in the highly anticipated Beetlejuice sequel, she continues to dispel baseless gossip and focus on her burgeoning career. Despite the distractions, the young actress remains grounded and committed to her craft.
In conclusion, Jenna Ortega’s response to these dating rumors serves as a reminder of the often absurd nature of celebrity gossip and the importance of addressing misinformation head-on. Fans can look forward to seeing her in her next big role, free from the distractions of false narratives.
