Jenna Ortega on Why She’d Go “All Day” Without Eating or Drinking on Set in Early Career

Jenna Ortega recently shared her experiences as a child actor, revealing that she would often go entire days without eating or drinking while on set. In an interview with Esquire, Ortega expressed her gratitude and excitement for being part of the acting world, stating that her "game face was on" during those early years. She emphasized that she did not want to be a burden to anyone, which led her to refrain from asking for food or water throughout the day. Ortega elaborated on her mindset during her childhood acting career, noting that she was highly focused and committed to her roles. She mentioned, “I really had it going for me as a child ‘cause I can’t think of one mistake I made.” This dedication to her work highlights her determination to succeed in the competitive environment of child acting. The actress's comments reflect a broader issue within the entertainment industry regarding the pressures faced by young performers. Ortega's willingness to sacrifice her basic needs in order to avoid being perceived as "in the way of anybody" underscores the intense expectations placed on child actors. Her experiences serve as a reminder of the challenges that young talent often encounters while navigating their careers in Hollywood.