Jenna Ortega recalls receiving explicit AI images of herself as a minor on social media: ‘It’s disgusting’

Jenna Ortega recalls receiving explicit AI images of herself as a minor on social media: 'It's disgusting'

As a devoted fan of Jenna Ortega, I deeply resonate with her struggles and triumphs, especially as someone who has grown up in the spotlight like her. Her raw vulnerability and honesty about navigating social media and childhood stardom is both inspiring and heartbreaking. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions watching this talented young actress grapple with the expectations and manipulations of the industry, all while trying to stay true to herself.


On a recent installment of The Interview podcast, hosted by The New York Times, Jenna Ortega shared her thoughts on some potential disadvantages associated with AI technology.

On Sunday, I found myself reminiscing about an unsettling ordeal from my past – discovering falsified, explicit images of me, underage, spread across various social media platforms.

She expressed her dislike for artificial intelligence, saying, “Was I happy when I was 14 and had to create a Twitter account because everyone else was doing it, only to find inappropriate, edited images of myself as a child? Absolutely not. It’s horrifying. It’s wrong.”

She continued: ‘It’s wrong. It’s disgusting.’

On Wednesday, the speaker likened the development and application of artificial intelligence to the unleashing of Pandora’s box.

Jenna Ortega recalls receiving explicit AI images of herself as a minor on social media: 'It's disgusting'

Essentially, the performer stated that things are as they are, a certain situation has been set into motion, and we must face whatever repercussions may come our way.

Still, she acknowledged the good AI has done ‘incredible things’ like ‘detect breast cancer’ before its progression. 

She said to the audience, “That’s stunning… Let’s leave it at that.” She expressed that while she hopes AI is used for noble purposes, one can say the same about any topic or thing.

Ortega disclosed that social media can pose risks for children, recalling an incident where she received an inappropriate image from an unknown man when she was just 12 years old.

She shared, “The very first Direct Message (DM) I received for myself, back when I was 12 years old, was an unexpected image of a man’s private parts. That unwanted experience was merely a glimpse into the experiences that followed.”

After spending numerous years encountering false pictures of herself and receiving inappropriate messages from others, this former Disney Channel star typically prefers to avoid using social media platforms.

Approximately two to three years ago, she admitted to removing some of her social media accounts due to an excessive flood of bizarre images and photographs that appeared following the release of Wednesday, which seemed irrational.

Ortega stated: ‘They were utterly revolting, and since I was already perplexed, I removed it as it wasn’t important and I didn’t require such content.’

Jenna Ortega recalls receiving explicit AI images of herself as a minor on social media: 'It's disgusting'

Ortega shared that she was motivated to maintain her records to enhance her reputation, however, the explicit content led her to erase X (formerly known as Twitter).

As a passionate individual, I’d often share my political views or express enthusiasm about job prospects, only to encounter comments that left me feeling uneasy and disheartened. It was appalling, and it took a toll on my emotions. Yet, one day, I found myself waking up with a newfound resolve. I realized that this negativity wasn’t serving me any longer, so I decided to let go of it altogether.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I am continuously honing my skills when it comes to safeguarding myself. I’m still very much in the process of refining my strategies and strengthening my self-defense techniques.

In the previous year, Ortega choked up as she shared about her challenges of expressing her true identity online, during a heartfelt conversation with Elle Fanning for Variety’s Actor Talks program.

Jenna Ortega recalls receiving explicit AI images of herself as a minor on social media: 'It's disgusting'

While they discussed their experiences of growing up famous, transitioning into young adulthood, and dealing with unhealthy work environments in the past, the celebrity admitted that her connection with Instagram sometimes becomes unpleasant.

Following the revelation by the actress from Teen Spirit (age 26) that her online experiences can sometimes be harmful, Ortega – who rose to fame playing Harley Diaz on Stuck in the Middle for Disney Channel – found herself tearing up as she spoke candidly about how her quick-witted and dry humor can easily lead her into tricky situations.

The performer clarified that they want others to understand the individuals operating the camera are just like everyone else, not superior beings. Unfortunately, as they’ve encountered more of the world, they’ve noticed people often exploit this notion, using one’s vulnerabilities in ways that may not always be anticipated.

As Ortega pondered, her eyes welled up with emotion, considering the peculiar challenge of maintaining honesty without compromising one’s personal well-being and security.

Jenna Ortega recalls receiving explicit AI images of herself as a minor on social media: 'It's disgusting'

The Golden Globe nominee, with a massive following of 40.6 million on Instagram, candidly shared that it can be quite challenging to maintain a sense of control.

Fanning responded: “It’s essential to safeguard yourself, and at times, understand when to step back. Remember, this isn’t the true reality.”

Ortega expressed that she strongly yearns for genuine humanity, sincerity, and authenticity. She then pointed out that such requests as “smiling” or “being more energetic” leave her feeling uncomfortable or unpleasant.

She concluded: ‘I don’t want to feel gross. I would rather people see me cry and do whatever than be something I’m not.’

Originally from Palm Desert, she confided that despite giving an audition on Wednesday, there was still doubt about casting her due to uncertainty about whether she was well-known enough.

Jenna Ortega recalls receiving explicit AI images of herself as a minor on social media: 'It's disgusting'

For people our age, social media often feels like a constant game of comparison. It can foster a herd mentality and is incredibly influential, sometimes in manipulative ways. Posting or speaking after an event makes me quite anxious because I’m worried about how others might perceive what I share or even the authentic version of myself.

Additionally, Ortega recalled her media coaching experience at Disney, during which they advised her to post content thrice a day to amass followers and interact with them to boost the popularity of her program.

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2024-08-24 21:55

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