Jenna Ortega just demonstrated why she’s the kind of refreshing Hollywood star we need today — one who stands up for her co-stars and doesn’t tolerate any form of disrespect. During a photocall for the upcoming Beetlejuice Beetlejuice at the Venice Film Festival on August 28, the 21-year-old actress showcased her close bond with Winona Ryder through a simple yet powerful gesture. When a rude photographer began to get loud, the Wednesday star immediately stepped in to defend her castmate, creating a moment that has since captivated fans.

In a video shared by Entertainment Tonight on TikTok, photographers were seen repeatedly pressuring the Heathers icon to remove her sunglasses for photos, even though she seemed perfectly content with them on. The Stranger Things star appeared to consider the requests until Jenna Ortega intervened, assuring Ryder that she didn’t need to comply if she wasn’t comfortable. In the clip, the X actress can be seen softly saying, “No, you don’t have to.” This act of support resonated deeply with viewers.

Fans quickly flooded the comments with messages of admiration for Jenna’s actions. One user, Gerry Gonzalez, captured the sentiment perfectly, praising her for standing up for her co-star. Another fan, Re8ekahlyn, pointed out how the moment felt like a healing experience, while Jnenaaa highlighted Ortega’s protective nature, noting how she instinctively stepped in to safeguard Ryder’s comfort. Additionally, many users commended the younger generation of stars for their approach to fame and their emphasis on setting boundaries. Judesamson79 expressed their admiration for this new wave of Hollywood stars.

This heartfelt moment between Jenna Ortega and Winona Ryder has undeniably touched the hearts of many longtime fans. Ortega’s calm and reassuring demeanor was especially heartwarming to witness alongside Ryder, who appeared somewhat nervous being at the center of attention. Fans have been eagerly observing the dynamic between these two leading ladies, both on and off-screen. The recent interaction at the film festival only heightens the excitement for how their chemistry will translate in Beetlejuice 2.

Ahead of the highly anticipated sequel’s release on the 2024 movie schedule, the actresses made a memorable appearance at the Venice Film Festival premiere, channeling each other’s iconic looks. Jenna Ortega stunned in a striking red gown that evoked Lydia Deetz’s vibes, while Winona Ryder wore a chic black outfit reminiscent of Wednesday’s fashion from the hit Netflix series.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the original Beetlejuice — a timeless classic and one of Tim Burton’s best works — or you’re excited to see this fresh take, one thing is clear: Jenna Ortega and Winona Ryder are a duo worth watching. Their chemistry, both on and off-screen, underscores the power of genuine connection in Hollywood. This bond promises to bring something truly special to the upcoming sequel.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is set to hit theaters on September 6. In the meantime, fans can revisit the original film featuring the iconic “Ghost with the Most,” available for streaming with a Max subscription.