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Wednesday’s Jenna Ortega addresses major cast exit

BBG News

As a gamer with over two decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the ongoing saga of “Wednesday” and its cast members has been quite the rollercoaster ride. The sudden departure of Percy Hynes White from the show leaves me wondering if the writers are attempting to write their own version of the “Got Milk?” ads – “Where’s Xavier Thorpe? Got Allegations!”

Note: The following article contains discussion of sexual misconduct allegations.

On Wednesday, Jenna Ortega referred to the departure of Percy Hynes White from the series as an “unusual shift” or “strange change of direction.”

The Netflix series centers around Wednesday Addams (played by Ortega) who, while attending Nevermore Academy, uncovers and tries to solve a mystery. This is sparked when she realizes she’s inherited her mother Morticia’s (portrayed by Catherine Zeta-Jones) psychic talents.

After receiving both positive reviews and high viewership, Netflix decided to continue the series with another season. However, Hynes White, portraying character Xavier Thorpe, was not brought back for the new installment due to accusations of sexual misconduct that had been levied against him.

Wednesday's Jenna Ortega addresses major cast exit

Ortega, who previously acted alongside White in the series “Winter Spring Summer or Fall“, spoke to Vanity Fair about her co-star’s exit, saying, “It feels like an unusual shift, but with all these new characters being introduced, I think it might get a bit lost. The world of Wednesday already seems a bit off-kilter anyway.”

In January 2023, White, known for his role in “Pretty Hard Cases,” faced accusations of sexual misconduct. A woman on Twitter (initially) claimed, in a since-removed post, that he had allegedly assaulted her while she was under the influence of alcohol.

White faced accusations of drugging and alcoholizing underage girls, which often led to further charges of assault against him. The initial claim was followed by multiple similar ones.

In June 2023, White publicly refuted the allegations (as reported by Deadline): “A stranger initiated an unfounded smear campaign against me on the internet earlier this year. As a result, my family has been targeted with personal information disclosure, and my friends have received threats of violence.”

Wednesday's Jenna Ortega addresses major cast exit

I’ve been through a tough time lately, as some unflattering and underage photos of me were used without my consent, and they presented me acting in character as something hateful. To add insult to injury, my dear friend Jane was falsely portrayed as a victim, and her efforts to set the record straight have fallen on deaf ears. I’m heartbroken over this, and I feel compelled to speak up about it because Jane has given me permission to include her in this message. It’s not right that she’s being wronged like this, and I hope that those responsible will take notice of the truth and make things right.

Let me clarify this for you: The stories circulating aren’t true. I strongly object to being labeled as intolerant or careless about people’s wellbeing, especially when it comes to safety matters. Such unfounded and damaging allegations have the potential to erode trust in those who have been wronged.

As a passionate fan, I’m sharing the news that not just the main character is leaving our favorite series ahead of its second season. Alongside White, Yoko Tanaka (played by Naomi J Ogawa) and Donovan Galpin (portrayed by Jamie McShane) are also parting ways. However, it’s reassuring to know that McShane will make a small appearance in guest role during the upcoming second season.

Wednesday streams on Netflix. Season 2 is in production.

Read more Wednesday news on our dedicated homepage

For those impacted by the matters discussed in this article, additional resources can be found on the Rape Crisis England and Wales website (dedicated to eradicating all types of sexual violence and misconduct) or via their National Helpline at 0808 802 9999. If you’re from Scotland, Rape Crisis Scotland offers support through their helpline: 08088 01 03 02.

U.S. residents are advised to reach out to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) or dial 800-656-4673 for the National Sexual Assault Hotline in case of need.

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2024-08-06 21:19

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