Lady Gaga Unveils Enigmatic Witch in First Look as Rosaline Rotwood for Netflix’s “Wednesday”

Netflix has released the first official look at Lady Gaga in her much-anticipated role as Rosaline Rotwood, a new character set to debut in the second half of “Wednesday” Season 2. The image, shared via Netflix’s X (formerly Twitter) account, captures Gaga enveloped in an ethereal white gown, her platinum-white hair and eyebrows lending an otherworldly allure. Perched on her shoulder is Thing, the iconic sentient hand, signaling Gaga’s integration into the beloved Addams Family universe. The striking image was captioned, “A vision in venom,” igniting speculation and enthusiasm among fans worldwide .

Lady Gaga’s character, Rosaline Rotwood, is described by Netflix as a “legendary Nevermore teacher” whose presence will be pivotal in the series’ unfolding narrative. While the precise nature of Rotwood’s role remains shrouded in secrecy—echoing the show’s penchant for suspense—even the cast has teased that there’s more to her than initial reports suggest. Jenna Ortega, who stars as Wednesday Addams, hinted in a recent interview that “whatever you’ve heard, it’s wrong,” suggesting Rotwood’s identity and motives may be more complex than the “teacher” label implies .

Set to appear in the final four episodes of Season 2, Rosaline Rotwood’s story will intersect with Wednesday’s as the young Addams continues her journey through the challenges and mysteries of Nevermore Academy. The second part of the season premieres globally on Netflix on September 3, 2025 .

Lady Gaga’s entry into the “Wednesday” universe is the result of a unique convergence of pop culture and social media. After the viral TikTok trend featuring Jenna Ortega’s Wednesday dancing to Gaga’s 2011 hit “Bloody Mary,” showrunners Alfred Gough and Miles Millar approached the multi-hyphenate artist about joining the cast. “Lady Gaga became a big fan of Season 1 when her song ‘Bloody Mary’ became the de facto track for Wednesday's viral dance,” the creators explained, adding, “We’re thrilled she agreed” .

This crossover between music, social media, and streaming television has not only bolstered anticipation but also exemplified the ways in which LGBTQ+ icons like Gaga help shape contemporary entertainment. Her casting was announced in November 2024, immediately sparking speculation and excitement among both Little Monsters and “Wednesday” fans .

Lady Gaga’s presence in “Wednesday” is significant beyond star power. Her career has long been celebrated for its advocacy and embrace of LGBTQ+ communities, and her inclusion in a genre-bending, outsider-centric series like “Wednesday” carries symbolic resonance. The Addams Family franchise, with its themes of difference, acceptance, and found family, has held special meaning for queer audiences for generations. Gaga’s Rosaline Rotwood—a mysterious, unconventional mentor figure—further enriches this dynamic, offering the possibility of new, nuanced representation.

The creative team’s decision to cast a globally recognized advocate and queer icon in a pivotal role aligns with an increasing push for authentic, diverse storytelling in mainstream media. While specific details about Rotwood’s backstory and character arc are closely guarded, her enigmatic presence is expected to challenge and intrigue both Wednesday Addams and viewers .

Adding another layer to her role, Lady Gaga will debut a new original song, “The Dead Dance,” during her guest appearance. In an interview with Netflix’s Tudum, Gaga revealed that the track was inspired by a recent breakup and explores the pain and empowerment that can arise from endings. “It was all about the way that we sometimes feel when it’s over; how a relationship ending can kill our ability to feel hopeful about love... it becomes about having fun with your friends when you’ve been through something tough and amazing,” Gaga shared . This musical contribution is likely to resonate with LGBTQ+ viewers, for whom themes of resilience and chosen family are especially poignant.

The creative secrecy surrounding Rosaline Rotwood’s storyline has only heightened anticipation. With the show’s previous success in weaving together dark humor, supernatural intrigue, and social commentary, fans and critics alike are eager to see how Gaga’s character will impact the fates of Wednesday and the wider Nevermore community .

“We want to keep it extra secret—but I love Jenna, and I really had an amazing time!” Gaga told press earlier this year, underscoring both her admiration for the young star and her commitment to the project .

As the countdown continues to the premiere of Season 2 Part 2, the arrival of Rosaline Rotwood marks not only a major pop culture moment, but a celebration of queer visibility, creativity, and the enduring power of the Addams Family to unite audiences of all backgrounds.