Winona Ryder has been confirmed as a guest star in Netflix’s “Jenna Ortega Wednesday Season” 3, reuniting with Ortega in a project linked by their shared history with director Tim Burton. This casting announcement connects the popular series with the iconic 1988 film “Beetlejuice,” strengthening the ties between Burton’s longtime collaborators and the new hit show.
Winona Ryder to Appear in Third Season of Wednesday
Ryder’s upcoming role in “Wednesday” season 3 sets up a notable reunion, as Jenna Ortega, who stars as Wednesday Addams, previously played Ryder’s on-screen daughter in “Beetlejuice.” Tim Burton, who directed both the film and the Netflix series, continues to executive produce and direct the show. Notably, Al Gough and Miles Millar, creators and showrunners of “Wednesday,” were also involved in writing the screenplay for “Beetlejuice.”
Burton expressed his excitement about Ryder joining the cast, saying,
“I am so happy that Winona has joined us, she fits right into this world,”
and added,
“And she’s a dear friend. I always feel lucky to work with her.”
Ryder’s Return to Netflix and Role Details
Ryder recently appeared in the final season of Netflix’s “Stranger Things,” and her addition to “Wednesday” marks a quick return to the platform. While the specifics of her character remain undisclosed, anticipation is high for her role in the third season.
Creators Gough and Millar praised Ryder’s legacy and collaboration with Burton, stating,
“When it comes to Outcasts, Winona Ryder is the GOAT,”
further noting,
“Her legendary partnership with Tim Burton has defined some of cinema’s most unforgettable characters. We loved collaborating with her on ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ and couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome her to Nevermore.”
New Cast Members and Connections to the Addams Family
Winona Ryder joins a growing list of new cast members for season 3, which recently announced Eva Green in the role of Ophelia, Morticia Addams’ sister. Ryder’s return to the “Beetlejuice” franchise with the 2024 sequel complements her role in “Wednesday,” linking both projects through shared talent and themes.
In addition to “Beetlejuice,” Ryder and Burton have worked together on acclaimed films such as “Edward Scissorhands” and the 2012 animated feature “Frankenweenie.” Ryder is a two-time Academy Award nominee, recognized for her performances in “The Age of Innocence” and “Little Women.” Beyond “Stranger Things,” her television credits include “The Plot Against America” and “Show Me a Hero.”
Overview of Wednesday’s Cast and Production
The “Wednesday” cast features Jenna Ortega alongside Emma Myers, Hunter Doohan, Joy Sunday, Moosa Mostafa, Georgie Farmer, Isaac Ordonez, Billie Piper, Luyanda Unati Lewis-Nyawo, Victor Dorobantu, Evie Templeton, Luis Guzmán, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Joanna Lumley, and Fred Armisen. This ensemble brings the characters created by Charles Addams to life under the executive production of Burton, Gough, and Millar, with MGM Television handling production.
“Wednesday” season 2 premiered in August and September 2025 in two parts. It followed the first season’s massive success, ranking as Netflix’s fifth most-watched English-language series ever, while season 1 remains the most-watched Netflix season worldwide.
The Impact of Ryder’s Inclusion on Wednesday’s Future
Winona Ryder’s participation in season 3 of “Jenna Ortega Wednesday Season” is expected to deepen the show’s connection to Burton’s cinematic legacy, enriching the narrative and attracting fans of both the original films and the series. Ryder’s proven collaboration with Burton and her recent Netflix success promise a compelling addition that could enhance the show’s appeal to a broader audience while maintaining its unique darkly whimsical tone.
