Despite recent announcements from Warner Bros. Pictures about a new Beetlejuice film entering development, neither Jenna Ortega nor Tim Burton have been informed about these plans. The actress and director have expressed surprise at the news, with Burton joking about possibly being replaced.
Tim Burton Reflects on the Possibility of Another Beetlejuice Film
Tim Burton discussed the difficulty of creating sequels to Beetlejuice, highlighting the long gap between the first and second films. He commented on how he greatly enjoyed working on the second movie, where improvisation among actors played a key role, and appreciated reconnecting with returning cast members alongside Ortega. However, Burton also voiced skepticism about another sequel, expressing doubt that a third installment would happen anytime soon given the long timeframes involved.
Jenna Ortega Emphasizes the Need for Burton’s Direction on a Third Film
Jenna Ortega firmly rejected the idea of a Beetlejuice 3 without Tim Burton at the helm. She stated that anyone attempting to move forward on the project without Burton would be in the wrong, stressing his essential role in shaping the franchise. Ortega underlined that Beetlejuice is unique because of Burton’s vision and warned that continuing without him would feel disrespectful to the original films.
Ortega Suggests a Surprising Plot Twist if Burton Returns
If Tim Burton were to direct a third Beetlejuice installment, Ortega hinted at an unconventional storyline. She suggested that her character, Astrid, could experience a different fate by dying and ascending to heaven instead of the Netherworld, as seen in prior films. Ortega also proposed the idea of featuring Baby Beetlejuice going on a tour and even sending him to Hawaii, adding a lighthearted and unexpected twist to the story.
Context and Impact of the Beetlejuice Franchise Today
The Beetlejuice sequel follows Lydia Deetz, portrayed by Winona Ryder, decades after the original film’s events. In the follow-up, Lydia hosts a paranormal talk show and has a skeptical daughter, Astrid, played by Ortega. Their interactions with Beetlejuice lead to chaotic adventures through supernatural realms. The film was a commercial success, opening with nearly $110 million in September box office earnings.
Burton and Ortega are also promoting the second season of their Netflix series, Wednesday, which premieres on August 6. Netflix recently confirmed a third season renewal, continuing their collaboration and hinting at ongoing creative success for the duo.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Jenna Ortega leave Wednesday?
A. Previous reports indicated that Ortega exited the franchise due to overlapping schedules with filming Wednesday’s second season and an unsuccessful appeal for a million-dollar salary.
Q. Is Jenna Ortega in Scream 7?
A. Jenna Ortega has explained why she’s stepping away from the “Scream” movies. The 22-year-old “Wednesday” actress shared her reasons in a Monday interview with The Cut. She’s not coming back for “Scream 7” after being in the last two films of the series.
Q. Why did Jenna Ortega leave?
A. “Wednesday” is most appropriate for teenagers and older kids who are okay with spooky images, supernatural themes, and some mild swearing. Although there isn’t any explicit material, the violence and dark themes might not be appropriate for younger audiences.
Q. Was Jenna Ortega in Scream 7?
A. Jenna Ortega explained why she chose to leave “Scream 7” following Melissa Barrera’s departure, saying things seemed to be unraveling.
