Netflix's Wednesday gets launch date and new characters

Netflix has officially revealed the launch date for the much-anticipated second season of its hit series, Wednesday. Jenna Ortega will reprise her role as the iconic Wednesday Addams, and fans are eager to see what the new season has in store. The first trailer for the upcoming season has been released, showcasing not only returning favorites but also new characters played by Joanna Lumley and Steve Buscemi. The streaming service has decided to split the new season into two parts, with the first set of episodes premiering on August 6 and the second batch following on September 3. This season will see Wednesday returning to Nevermore Academy, which is now under the guidance of a new principal, Barry Dort, portrayed by Buscemi. Additionally, Wednesday's little brother, Pugsley, played by Isaac Ordonez, will be joining her at the school. Executive producer Tim Burton has described Pugsley as 'an outcast among outcasts,' hinting at the unique dynamics that will unfold this season. Furthermore, viewers can expect to see more of Wednesday's parents, who will have a larger presence on campus this time around. Netflix has humorously noted that this will be 'a rare new form of torture' for Wednesday, who is known for her fiercely independent and inquisitive nature. The trailer opens with Wednesday navigating airport security, where she is required to remove a variety of unusual items from her bag, including a knuckle duster, a cattle prod, several knives, and even Thing, a disembodied hand. The security guard amusingly questions her about a tube of sun cream she is carrying, showcasing Wednesday's quirky personality. Jenna Ortega expressed her excitement about returning to the role, stating, 'Wednesday Addams is one of the coolest characters of all time. ' She finds it enjoyable to portray someone who is incredibly intelligent and witty, making for a fun and unique acting experience. Joanna Lumley, a veteran British actress, has joined the cast as Hester Frump, who is Wednesday's grandmother and closest ally. Lumley described her experience on set as 'intoxicating,' and she enjoys the elaborate costumes and wigs that come with her character. Steve Buscemi, who plays the new principal, described Barry Dort as 'a bit of a mysterious figure,' suggesting that there is something not quite right about him, despite his love for the school and its students. The first season of Wednesday was Netflix's biggest hit to date, solidifying Jenna Ortega's status as a rising star in the entertainment industry. She has since appeared in various films, including Beetlejuice and Scream XI. In the trailer, Wednesday's mother, Morticia, played by Catherine Zeta-Jones, notes that this is the first time Wednesday is returning to school willingly. Wednesday herself humorously describes her return as 'like returning to the scene of the crime,' indicating her dark sense of humor. The trailer also features Wednesday attending a macabre tea party with dolls, where she reflects, 'Wherever there's murder and mayhem, you will always find an Addams. ' The mention of 'mayhem' in the trailer could hint at exciting plot developments, and Netflix is undoubtedly hoping that the new season will replicate the success of the first. The decision to split the season into two parts is likely a strategic move to keep subscribers engaged and to build anticipation for the show.