Jaina Lee Ortiz, who became a household name as the fearless and dynamic firefighter Andy Herrera on Station 19, is making bold strides in her career following the end of the hit ABC drama in May 2024. Ortiz’s portrayal of Andy, the driven and passionate leader of Station 19, won her widespread acclaim over the course of seven seasons. Her character, who navigated the complexities of family expectations, professional ambition, and personal growth, was central to the show’s success. As the series wrapped up, Ortiz left an indelible mark on the audience, cementing her as one of the standout stars of Station 19.
With the end of Station 19, many fans were eager to see what the actress would do next. Ortiz has clearly thought about her future, and she’s taking charge of her next steps in the industry. Recently, she made a significant career move by signing with the renowned talent agency William Morris Endeavor (WME), one of the most prestigious agencies in Hollywood. This decision marks a shift in her career strategy, as she moves from her previous agency, Verve, to WME, which represents a host of A-list stars, including Ben Affleck, Christian Bale, Alicia Keys, and Jennifer Garner. The move to WME signals Ortiz’s intention to expand her opportunities in both film and television, potentially leading to more high-profile roles.
During her time on Station 19, Ortiz played a critical role in the development of the show’s narrative and the emotional arcs of its characters. As the fire chief of the Seattle Fire Department and former captain of Station 19, Andy faced a variety of challenges, both on the job and in her personal life, which were explored in-depth throughout the series. Fans watched as Andy juggled the pressures of living up to the legacy of her father, a beloved fire captain, while trying to define herself on her own terms. Her storylines involving love, loss, and leadership resonated deeply with viewers, making her a key figure in the show’s success. Additionally, Ortiz’s role in several Grey’s Anatomy crossovers further connected her to the broader Shonda Rhimes universe, giving her a unique place within the franchise.
Before landing the role that would define her career, Ortiz had already made her mark in Hollywood with notable appearances in various projects. She starred in the Fox police drama Rosewood, opposite Morris Chestnut, where she portrayed Detective Annalise Villa. Although Rosewood was canceled after two seasons, it helped solidify Ortiz’s place in television, paving the way for her future in leading roles. Her experience with Station 19, however, was her most high-profile project to date, with her character becoming an integral part of the show’s success and evolution.
Despite her significant role on Station 19, Ortiz’s film and television career outside of the show has been relatively limited, with appearances in shows like Scream Queens, Modern Family, and Shooter. She also appeared in the 2017 film Girls Trip, where she played herself in a cameo, and starred in The Long Game, a sports drama released in 2023 alongside Dennis Quaid. These roles, though notable, were relatively small in comparison to the extensive run of Station 19. Ortiz’s transition to WME signals that she is seeking bigger opportunities in both television and film, likely with roles that will allow her to showcase her acting range in new and exciting ways.
With the signing to WME, Ortiz has positioned herself for a diverse and dynamic future in Hollywood. Many are curious about the kind of roles she will take on next—whether it will be another dramatic lead role in a TV series or a leap into feature films. Given her proven ability to carry a show, many expect her to land another significant television role, but there’s also the possibility that Ortiz could take on roles in the film industry, where her talent could allow her to break into larger-scale projects. The move also gives her access to a wider range of creative opportunities, including potential collaborations with top-tier directors and producers.
As Ortiz begins this new chapter, her fans are excited to see what the future holds for her. After seven years in the firehouse, it’s clear that Ortiz has the talent, determination, and versatility to thrive in whatever project she takes on next. With her new representation and the backing of one of Hollywood’s most influential agencies, it’s only a matter of time before Jaina Lee Ortiz’s next big project takes center stage, whether on TV or the big screen. Fans will undoubtedly be watching closely as she continues to build on the momentum of her successful career and explore new roles that further highlight her remarkable abilities as an actress.
