Taylor Ortega Leverages New Jersey Roots for Netflix's 'Big Mistakes'

Taylor Ortega is making waves in the comedy world, thanks to her starring role in Netflix's highly anticipated series "Big Mistakes," created by Dan Levy, of "Schitt's Creek" fame. Ortega's New Jersey upbringing not only influenced her comedic style but also played a crucial role in landing her the lead. The actress was busy filming "Another Simple Favor" in Italy when she got the call that would change her career trajectory. "Big Mistakes" was searching for its cast, and the character Ortega was auditioning for resonated deeply with her—she was of a similar age, from a comparable New Jersey hometown, and had a personality that mirrored her own. The synergy was palpable. “I was in Italy for a month, so I was doing a lot of tapes while I was there,” Ortega recounted in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter. She enlisted the help of her castmates, including Broadway star Alex Newell, for a self-tape audition. “Sometimes you have a Tony winner at your disposal and you just have to beg them to help you,” she added with a laugh. Ortega's approach, balancing expectation with passion, exemplifies the hustle prevalent in the entertainment industry—especially for comedic talents looking to break through. Even though she felt a strong connection to the role, she reminded herself of the competitive nature of casting. “You do so many of these and you know that the creative team already has an agenda,” she noted. Months passed without a word, leading Ortega to momentarily push the role from her mind. Then, out of the blue, the show's producers requested another tape. A few days later, she was in a room auditioning alongside Dan Levy himself during a chemistry test. The next day, she received the game-changing call—she was cast as the co-lead, Morgan, in "Big Mistakes." "I found out then that I was the very first person to audition for it," Ortega stated, a mix of disbelief and pride in her voice. "And when you’re the first tape, you’re like an opening act for all the other actors." Fortunately, her unique blend of talent and authenticity made her an unforgettable choice. "Big Mistakes" follows siblings entangled in a world far removed from their ordinary lives, steeped in crime yet enriched with comedy. Morgan, Ortega's character, is a former public school teacher who finds herself back in her small-town roots, grappling with a stagnant relationship and her own self-worth. After a reckless decision to steal a necklace during a shopping trip, she and her brother, played by Levy, quickly realize they’ve landed themselves in a dangerous predicament. The vibrant humor blended with poignant moments is a hallmark of Levy’s work, and Ortega’s performance is poised to resonate with audiences. Her portrayal of Morgan is likely to showcase her comedic chops while also delving into deeper emotional currents—a balancing act that is essential for any successful comedy today. With her roots in New Jersey serving as a foundation for her character, Ortega's performance is poised to reflect both the humor and challenges of small-town life. As a comedian, she embodies the unique blend of rage and humor that often defines her upbringing in the Garden State, a quality that is sure to shine through in "Big Mistakes." As Netflix continues to expand its library of original content, featuring diverse voices and backgrounds, Ortega is an example of how personal experiences can shape and elevate a narrative. Her journey from auditioning on location in Italy to landing a lead role in a Dan Levy project exemplifies the relentless grind of the entertainment industry—and the rewards that come from staying true to oneself. With "Big Mistakes" set to release soon, audiences can expect a fresh blend of comedy, crime, and heart, all while witnessing the emergence of Taylor Ortega as a formidable talent in Hollywood. Her story is not just about landing a role; it’s about representation, personal connection, and the authenticity that comes from staying rooted in one’s origins. As we await the show's debut, Ortega stands as a reminder that your background can be your greatest asset, transforming what could be categorized as mere “big mistakes” into stepping stones toward success in the industry.