Jenna Ortega reflects on Cameron Boyce’s support during a challenging audition
A heartfelt memory
In a recent interview, Jenna Ortega shared a touching story about her late friend and fellow actor, Cameron Boyce. Speaking with her “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” co-stars, Winona Ryder and Catherine O’Hara, Ortega recounted an uncomfortable audition experience that Boyce helped her navigate. The audition required them to kiss, which was particularly awkward as they were close friends and teenagers at the time. Boyce tragically passed away in 2019 at the age of 20 due to a seizure.
A moment of kindness
Ortega described the situation, saying, “The last time I saw my friend Cameron Boyce — I’d known him since I was like 11 or 12, and we were supposed to kiss [in an audition] and he knew me, since I was 11 or 12. This is a few years later, 15 or 16, we came in and we were supposed to be love interests. But because he obviously felt weird and he was a bit older, he was like — we both just kinda looked at each other and we were like, ‘No, we can’t do this.’”
Boyce’s sensitivity to Ortega’s discomfort was evident. “He was so sweet because I was uncomfortable and I was having a hard time,” Ortega added. She expressed her gratitude for Boyce’s support, noting that he prioritized her comfort over the audition’s demands. “And then, we wished each other well.”
Keeping Cameron’s legacy alive
Boyce’s parents have expressed how much it means to them when his friends and former colleagues share stories about him. They believe these stories help keep his legacy alive and show that people still want to hold onto his memory.
The evolution of audition practices
Ortega’s experience is not unique. Other actors have also spoken out about the uncomfortable situations they faced during auditions. Anne Hathaway, for instance, shared her own experiences with V Magazine earlier this year. She recalled how chemistry tests in the 2000s often involved making out with multiple actors, which she found distressing.
“Back in the 2000s — and this did happen to me — it was considered normal to ask an actor to make out with other actors to test for chemistry, which is actually the worst way to do it,” Hathaway said. “I was told, ‘We have 10 guys coming today and you’re cast. Aren’t you excited to make out with all of them?’ And I thought, ‘Is there something wrong with me?’ because I wasn’t excited. I thought it sounded gross.”
Hathaway continued, “I was so young and terribly aware how easy it was to lose everything by being labeled ‘difficult,’ so I just pretended I was excited and got on with it. It wasn’t a power play, no one was trying to be awful or hurt me. It was just a very different time and now we know better.”
A changing industry
The entertainment industry has come a long way in recognizing and addressing the discomfort and boundaries of young actors. Stories like those shared by Ortega and Hathaway highlight the importance of creating a safe and respectful environment for all performers. As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial to remember and honor the experiences of those who have paved the way for better practices.
For more insights into Jenna Ortega’s career and her latest projects, check out the trailer for Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.
Personal reflections
As a cinema and TV series enthusiast, it’s heartening to see the industry making strides towards more respectful and considerate practices. The stories shared by actors like Jenna Ortega and Anne Hathaway serve as powerful reminders of the challenges faced by young performers. Their experiences underscore the importance of empathy and support within the industry.
For those interested in exploring more about the actors mentioned, I highly recommend watching their performances and diving into their filmographies. Jenna Ortega’s work in “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” and Anne Hathaway’s extensive career offer a wealth of talent and dedication that is truly inspiring.
Additional resources
By reflecting on these stories and supporting the work of these talented actors, we can contribute to a more compassionate and understanding entertainment industry.