Wednesday, the Netflix original series that was created as a spinoff of the 90’s film, The Addams Family, has grown in popularity since its release over the long Thanksgiving weekend. The TV series claimed the title of the most-viewed English show in a single week as well as claiming the number one ranking in 89 countries. 

The “supernatural” dark comedy stars Jenna Ortega, who plays the young adolescent Wednesday Addams. Her character is sent unwillingly by her parents to attend Nevermore Academy. Her mother, Morticia Addams, and her father, Gomez Addams, both treasured their time at the boarding school when they were teenagers and believe that Wednesday will be able to thrive in the new environment. While making new friends and engaging with many  unforgettable experiences, Wednesday attempts to uncover a thrilling monster mystery that has left audiences on the edge of their seats. 

Actress Jenna Ortega had a very hands-on experience while working on the set of Wednesday. Ortega choreographed the iconic dance scene in the fourth episode. The actress has mentioned in multiple interviews that she gained inspiration by watching footage of goth kids dancing in the 1980s in order to pay homage to the beloved character. 

Christina Ricci is a long-tenured actress who was already very familiar with the spooky, gothic-type setting as she rose to fame with her role as Wednesday Addams in The Addams Family film and its sequel, Addams Family Values, which aired in 1991 and 1993, respectively. The actress now plays the supporting role as Ms. Thornhill in the modern spinoff, Wednesday.

Filmmaker Tim Burton has been known for creating gothic fantasy and horror films and was therefore familiar with the ominous environment that Wednesday has been set in. Burton was motivated to create this hit series by his admiration for the main character. “I like her directness – she does feel separate from everybody. And she sees things from her very clear, black-and-white point of view, which is kind of an artist’s point of view, so that spoke to me,” Burton explains while being interviewed by The Strait Times.

Be sure to watch the record-breaking TV series and see if you believe that it lives up to all the hype!