Winona Ryder will return to the Netflix hit series Wednesday for its third season, reuniting with director Tim Burton and lead actress Jenna Ortega. The announcement confirms Ryder’s involvement in the show, a move that excites fans eager to see more from the darkly captivating universe of Nevermore Academy.
At 54, Ryder is no stranger to collaborating with Burton, having starred in four of his films, including the iconic 1988 gothic horror Beetlejuice. Ryder and Ortega previously shared the screen during the Beetlejuice sequel, making this upcoming season a welcome reunion for the two actresses.
New Cast Members and Returning Stars Enrich Season Three
Alongside Ryder, several other actors are set to join the cast in the upcoming season. Chris Sarandon, Noah Taylor, Oscar Morgan, and Kennedy Moyer head the list of fresh faces joining the storyline. Their addition expands the ensemble, complementing returning stars such as Jenna Ortega, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Luis Guzman, and Eva Green, who was announced earlier.
Al Gough and Miles Millar, the creators, showrunners, and executive producers of Wednesday, expressed enthusiasm as production begins. They described their excitement saying,
“It’s our dark delight to fling open Nevermore Academy’s gates once more as we begin production on Season Three.”
The duo also thanked the cast and crew for their dedication and the fans for their passionate engagement, stating,
“Your twisted theories have inspired nightmares. This season we welcome new students, new teachers, and excavate some long-rotting Addams Family secrets. Don’t say you weren’t warned.”
Winona Ryder’s Career and Personal Milestones
Ryder recently concluded a notable five-season role on Netflix’s Stranger Things, portraying Joyce Byers. She appeared publicly in November 2025 at the season five premiere, accompanied by her long-term partner, fashion designer Scott Mackinlay Hahn, whom she has dated since 2011.
The couple maintained a low profile but shared a brief moment holding hands during the photo session on the red carpet at Hollywood’s TCL Chinese Theatre. Their last known public appearance together was at the Beetlejuice screening in London, where they wore matching black outfits at the star-studded event.
Insights into Jenna Ortega’s Demeanor on Set
An extra from Wednesday’s first season, Iustin Costinesti, shared his perspective on working alongside Jenna Ortega. Costinesti, who portrayed a werewolf character, described Ortega as reserved and consistently in character, noting,
“She was very shy, she was always with headphones and I think she was always in character.”
Despite her quiet nature, he added,
“She was lovely though, she was kind to all of us and she was saying hello to all of us.”
This glimpse highlights Ortega’s professionalism and kindness, contributing to the positive environment on set.
What This Means for Wednesday Season Three
With Winona Ryder’s addition alongside new cast members and fan favorites, Wednesday season three is shaping up to deepen the story’s dark and mysterious atmosphere. The involvement of Tim Burton, combined with the creative leadership of Al Gough and Miles Millar, promises a continuation that will intrigue longtime viewers and newcomers alike.
The show remains exclusive to Netflix, where audiences eagerly await the next chapter unraveling the secrets of Nevermore Academy and the complex dynamics among its characters.
