Jenna Ortega: Why She Skipped Food & Water on Set

Jenna Ortega is opening up about the grueling realities of her early days in Hollywood, revealing that she often pushed her own basic needs aside in order to stay ready for the camera. In a recent conversation, the actress admitted that during the start of her career, she would go the entire day without eating or drinking anything while on set, a habit she now looks back on with a mix of disbelief and understanding.

The “Wednesday” star explained that her mindset back then was purely focused on not missing a cue or falling behind during a busy production schedule. She described a feeling of constant pressure to be available and prepared at every moment, which led her to skip meals and even water breaks. Ortega noted that she was so worried about being called to set at any second that she preferred to simply stay put, rather than risk stepping away for a quick bite or a sip of water.

That self-imposed deprivation, she said, was rooted in a deeper fear of appearing unprofessional or being seen as an inconvenience to the crew. As a young performer still trying to prove herself, Ortega felt that any pause for personal comfort might be interpreted as a lack of dedication. She described the atmosphere on many sets as fast-paced and unforgiving, where the unspoken rule was to be constantly ready, and she internalized that pressure in an extreme way.

Ortega’s reflection comes as she has become one of the most in-demand young actors in the industry, with a reputation for intense commitment to her roles. She has often spoken about her work ethic in the past, but this particular admission sheds new light on the physical toll that early ambition can take. Rather than romanticizing the sacrifice, she framed it as a lesson in what not to do, acknowledging that looking after oneself is ultimately part of doing the job well.

The actress didn’t specify which projects or years she was referring to, but her rise began with smaller roles in television and film during her preteen and teenage years. She was a regular on shows like “Stuck in the Middle” and appeared in a string of movies, often juggling multiple commitments at once. That period of her life, she said, was defined by a relentless drive to keep moving forward, even if it meant ignoring her body’s signals.

Looking back, Ortega admitted that the behavior was not sustainable and that she has since learned to set boundaries for her own health. She now makes it a point to take breaks and hydrate properly, understanding that a hungry or exhausted performer cannot give their best work. The shift in perspective, she said, came with experience and confidence - once she felt more secure in her place on set, she realized she could advocate for herself without risking her reputation.

Her candid remarks have sparked conversation among fans and industry observers alike, many of whom appreciate her willingness to discuss the less-glamorous side of show business. In an era where actors often curate a polished image, Ortega’s frankness about her early struggles feels refreshingly grounded. She has consistently used her platform to speak honestly about the challenges of her profession, from navigating balancing school and work to dealing with the pressures of sudden fame.

The timing of her comments is also notable, as she continues to headline major projects that demand long hours and intense physical preparation. Her role in “Wednesday,” for example, required extensive dance rehearsals and stunt work, a far cry from the days when she was simply waiting for a call. That contrast highlights how much her approach has evolved, even as her workload has grown larger than ever.

Ortega stopped short of recommending her old habits to other young actors, instead suggesting that finding a supportive team is key to surviving the business. She credited working with directors and crews who prioritize well-being, noting that a healthy environment makes all the difference in how she performs. Her advice to aspiring performers is to speak up early about their needs, rather than suffering in silence as she once did.

As she continues to rise, Ortega’s story serves as a reminder that success in Hollywood often comes with hidden costs. Her willingness to share those difficult chapters, however, turns personal hardship into a cautionary tale that others can learn from. For now, she seems focused on a more balanced path forward - one that still honors her passion for acting, but no longer at the expense of her own well-being.

Source: Hollywood Reporter