By Sohaib Shams
Actor Jenna Ortega has revealed that her early experience with Disney Channel media training negatively impacted her ability to maintain personal boundaries with fans. The 24-year-old star explained that the training instilled a sense of obligation to treat every fan interaction as a monumental moment in their lives, a mindset she says has stayed with her.
Challenges with Fan Interactions
Ortega noted that she is currently working to establish healthier boundaries. She described assessing fan interactions on a case-by-case basis, particularly when feeling unsafe or uncomfortable, such as when asked for photos by strangers. While she acknowledged that many interactions are positive, she admitted that others can be aggressive, mean, or embarrassing, making it difficult to find a balance.
Reflections on Child Stardom
The actress, who rose to prominence at age 13 in the Disney Channel sitcom Stuck in the Middle, also touched upon the difficulties of being a child star. She previously shared that she often neglected her own basic needs, such as eating or drinking, while on set because she feared being perceived as ungrateful or being in the way of production.
Personal Health and Career
In addition to discussing her professional upbringing, Ortega spoke about her lifelong experience with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which she was diagnosed with at age seven. She mentioned using therapy, medication, and acting as ways to manage the condition. Following her success in the Netflix series Wednesday, Ortega's recent projects include the Scream franchise and the film adaptation of Klara and the Sun.
