Jenna Ortega admits she was ‘so scared’ to take break from acting

Jenna Ortega has revealed she initially felt “so scared” taking time off from acting, before ultimately embracing a slower pace of life filled with personal discovery and simple, everyday pleasures.

The Wednesday star, 23, shared that after months of constant work, the idea of having unstructured time left her feeling uncertain about how to fill her days. 

Speaking on Big Bro Podcast, Ortega admitted the first few weeks of her break were particularly challenging.

“I was so scared,” she said, recalling how she struggled to adjust to life without a packed schedule. “I didn’t really know what to do… maybe I should pick up a hobby?”

However, the downtime soon became a period of growth. Ortega explained that she began to reconnect with herself, learning what she truly enjoys outside of her demanding career. 

From cooking something she missed while living out of hotel rooms to simply entertaining herself without screens, the actress found comfort in “real domestic stuff.”

Beyond rediscovering everyday routines, Ortega also leaned into her love for reading, revealing she frequently buys books and considers bookstores her ultimate weakness. 

Whether on set or at home, she described reading as a meaningful escape and a way to experience stories beyond digital screens.

The actress also shared her fondness for collecting small, sentimental items, including antiques and movie posters, which she described as “little precious objects” she has no intention of parting with.

Ortega’s reflections offer a rare glimpse into the challenges of slowing down in a fast-paced industry and how stepping back can lead to a deeper appreciation for the quieter moments often missed in the rush of success.