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Jenna Ortega Reflects on Hereditary Audition Loss

4/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Jenna Ortega recalled auditioning for the Charlie role in Hereditary at age 12 on Kid Cudi's podcast Big Bro, but Milly Shapiro won the part.
She says she received limited script material and did not know what she was looking at at the time.
After watching the finished film in theaters, she recognized it as the project she had auditioned for.
She remains focused on acting, including Netflix's Wednesday.

History

Historical Context

"Hereditary," directed by Ari Aster, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2018, marking a significant moment in the rise of psychological horror, grossing over $80 million worldwide. Toni Collette's portrayal of Annie Graham earned her critical acclaim, including a Gotham Independent Film Award for Best Actress. This film reflects the evolving landscape of horror cinema, emphasizing complex emotional narratives.

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Story summary

Jenna Ortega recalled auditioning for the Charlie role in Hereditary at age 12 on Kid Cudi's podcast Big Bro, but Milly Shapiro won the part.
She says she received limited script material and did not know what she was looking at at the time.
After watching the finished film in theaters, she recognized it as the project she had auditioned for.
She remains focused on acting, including Netflix's Wednesday.

1 / 2