Christina Ricci, a name synonymous with the character of Wednesday Addams, has recently opened up about why she is stepping back from her iconic role. Ricci, who played Wednesday in the 1991 film “The Addams Family” and its 1993 sequel “Addams Family Values,” has passed the torch to Jenna Ortega, who now stars as Wednesday in Tim Burton’s Netflix series.
In the first season of “Wednesday,” Ricci takes on the role of Marilyn Thornhill, the dorm mother at Nevermore Academy, where Wednesday Addams (played by Ortega) and her roommate Enid Sinclair (Emma Myers) reside. Thornhill also teaches botanical science, and as the series progresses, her character reveals unexpected layers.
Ricci’s portrayal of Wednesday Addams in the early ’90s left an indelible mark on pop culture. However, more than three decades later, Ricci feels it’s time for a new generation to take over. “Jenna is so good, and her characterization is so good,” Ricci told The Hollywood Reporter. She expressed that she no longer feels a sense of ownership over the character, especially given the significant time gap since she last played the role.
Ricci emphasized that her portrayal of Wednesday was a product of her time and age. “The last time I played this part, I was 12. I’m now 44 years old,” she said. This age difference has given her a different perspective on the character, making it easier for her to let go and appreciate Ortega’s fresh take.
Ricci also highlighted the importance of recognizing the contributions of all actors who have brought Wednesday Addams to life over the years. “Wednesday’s been played by many different people over the years,” she noted. Drawing a parallel to Shakespearean roles, she likened the character to Juliet, a role that has seen numerous interpretations.
The Addams Family, created by the late illustrator Charles Addams, first appeared in The New Yorker magazine in 1938. The family made its live-action debut on ABC-TV from 1964-66, with Lisa Loring playing Wednesday. The character has since been portrayed in various animated and live-action adaptations, each bringing a unique flavor to the iconic role.
In 1998-99, “The New Addams Family” aired on the Fox Family Channel, with Nicole Fugure as Wednesday. Ricci’s portrayal in the early ’90s films remains one of the most memorable, but the character has continued to evolve. In 2019, an animated film featured Chloë Grace Moretz as the voice of Wednesday, with a sequel following in 2021.
Jenna Ortega’s portrayal in Tim Burton’s “Wednesday” series has been widely praised, and the show has been renewed for a second season. Ortega stars alongside Catherine Zeta-Jones and Luis Guzmán, who play Morticia and Gomez Addams, respectively. While it’s uncertain if Ricci will return for the second season, her role in the first season has been a significant nod to her legacy.
Ricci’s decision to step back from the role of Wednesday Addams reflects her respect for the character’s evolution and the new talent bringing it to life. Her acknowledgment of Ortega’s performance and her willingness to share the spotlight with other actors who have portrayed Wednesday speaks volumes about her humility and appreciation for the character’s rich history.
As the Addams Family continues to captivate audiences, Ricci’s legacy as Wednesday will always be remembered. However, her decision to relinquish the role signifies a new chapter for the character, one that embraces change and celebrates the diverse interpretations that have kept Wednesday Addams relevant and beloved for generations.
