Jenna Ortega stepped into a different kind of spotlight in London this week, promoting Klara and the Sun with a look that stood apart from the dark, gothic styling many viewers associate with her. The appearance has drawn attention not just for fashion, but because it arrives as the film moves toward its October 23, 2026 theatrical release.
Why Jenna Ortega’s London appearance is getting attention
At the October 14 London photocall for Klara and the Sun, Ortega wore a color-blocked Calvin Klein outfit with bright yellow and white across the top, paired with a long black skirt. The look offered a noticeable contrast with the darker styling often linked to her work on Wednesday and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. Coverage of the event also noted that her dog, Sig—often called Twigs—joined her at the photocall, adding an unplanned, personal detail to the promotional appearance.
The interest is understandable: a press-tour look can become part of the conversation around a film, especially when it signals a change in visual tone. But the more meaningful story is the role Ortega is promoting. In Taika Waititi’s adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel, she plays Klara, an artificial friend designed to help ease loneliness. The character’s optimism and emotional attentiveness sit far from the sharper, more guarded personas that have made Ortega familiar to many younger viewers.
What is “Klara and the Sun” about?
The film follows Klara, an artificial companion who is chosen by a family whose teenage daughter, Josie, is dealing with serious challenges. As Klara observes the household, she tries to understand human relationships and whether her own hopeful outlook can make a difference. The story uses artificial intelligence as a lens for questions about care, grief, technology and what people need from one another.
Sony Pictures lists Taika Waititi as writer-director and names Amy Adams, Mia Tharia, Natasha Lyonne and Steve Buscemi among the cast. The movie is scheduled to open in U.S. theaters on October 23, 2026, according to the studio’s official film page.
Why the appearance matters beyond fashion
Ortega’s photocall look gives the press tour a bright visual hook, but it also fits the film’s warmer title and themes. That does not mean an outfit alone predicts a movie’s reception. The more useful measure will be how audiences respond to the film’s quieter, emotionally focused story when it reaches theaters.
For Ortega, the project also broadens the range of roles in her public conversation: Klara is not defined by menace or sarcasm, but by curiosity, loyalty and a belief that connection can help people through difficult moments. That contrast may be one reason the appearance is attracting attention ahead of release.
Watch the official trailer
The trailer offers a first look at Ortega as Klara and the film’s near-future setting. The video below is published by Sony Pictures Entertainment.
Frequently asked questions
When does Klara and the Sun come out?
Sony Pictures lists the U.S. theatrical release for October 23, 2026.
Who does Jenna Ortega play in Klara and the Sun?
Ortega plays Klara, an artificial friend designed to provide companionship. The film is based on Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel.
Who directed Klara and the Sun?
Taika Waititi wrote and directed the adaptation.
Where did Jenna Ortega make her latest appearance for the film?
She attended a London photocall for Klara and the Sun on October 14, 2026, ahead of the film’s theatrical release.
