Netflix’s “Wednesday” series has taken the streaming world by storm, becoming the platform’s most popular English series to date. With over a quarter of a billion views, the show has amassed an astonishing 1.7 billion hours of streaming, solidifying its place as a cultural phenomenon. Given this staggering success, it was almost a given that Netflix would swiftly green-light a second season.
In a surprising turn of events, Thora Birch, who was initially cast as the dorm mother Tamara Novak, had to exit the series. The departure was first reported as a personal matter, claiming Birch needed to attend to an illness within her family. It was revealed that she had completed the majority of her work for the character, but allegedly left before completing all her scenes.
Further complicating matters, Birch’s decision to leave was also influenced by creative changes within the show. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight in October 2022, Birch disclosed that the artistic direction of her character was in flux, which ultimately led to her inability to return to the set.
“Wednesday” has been a triumph for Netflix since its debut in November 2021. The series, which centers on the iconic Addams Family daughter during her years at Nevermore Academy, captivated audiences with its dark humor and gothic charm. Jenna Ortega’s portrayal of the psychic teenager has been met with critical acclaim, and she is confirmed to reprise her role in the upcoming season. She will be joined by Catherine Zeta-Jones and Luis Guzmán, who will return as Morticia and Gomez Addams, respectively.
The show’s creators, Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, have crafted a narrative that not only resonates with the current generation but also pays homage to the beloved franchise. Within just one week of its release, “Wednesday” broke records by being streamed for a total of 341.2 million hours, surpassing milestones previously held by other hit series.
Ortega’s rising star is further evidenced by her involvement in other high-profile projects, including the horror film “X,” the latest installments of the “Scream” series, and the highly anticipated “Beetlejuice 2,” which sees her working once again with producer Tim Burton.
As fans eagerly await the release of “Wednesday” season two, slated for late 2024, the show stands as a testament to Netflix’s ability to deliver content that captivates millions worldwide. With a record-breaking first season and a promising future, “Wednesday” is poised to continue its reign as a streaming sensation.
