Netflix’s ‘Wednesday’: 8 Subtle Homages To Classic ‘Addams Family’ Lore

The Double Snap 

Never underestimate the power of a good callback. We all remember doing those finger snaps along with the theme song. And luckily, the show turned the iconic moment into an actual secret password at Nevermore. Students have to nail the perfect double snap to access one of the school’s hidden chambers. It was a super clever way to work in a classic bit and making it part of the plot was a genius move.

Thing’s Personality

Who knew a disembodied hand could steal the show? Previous versions of Thing were great and all, but this iteration takes things to a whole new level. One minute Thing’s helping Wednesday crack a case, the next they’re throwing serious shade with nothing but finger gestures. Those little fist bumps? Absolutely precious. Somehow a character without a face, voice, or, well, anything except a hand, ended up being one of the most expressive parts of the show.

Wednesday’s Love for the Macabre

Past versions of Wednesday loved the macabre, as does the new Netflix one. Her fascination with death, torture devices, and the grotesque pays homage to the original, but luckily, it’s no longer just a quirky character trait. Her dark interests actually help solve mysteries throughout the show. And the way she casually drops disturbing historical facts during normal conversations has perfect comedic timing. Nothing beats that therapy session where she completely traumatizes her counselor with detailed descriptions of historical executions. 

The Rave’N Dance

Wednesday’s dance season from Episode 4 was undoubtedly one of the most memorable moments of Wednesday Season 1. Jenna Ortega — who choreographed the whole routine herself — blended quirky arm movements with a deadpan stare. And with her funky footwork, she gave a subtle nod to Lisa Loring’s original Wednesday dance from the ’60s show.

Morticia’s Roses

Most people trim roses to keep them alive – but not Morticia. Watching Catherine Zeta-Jones snip off those flower heads with such elegance reminds us of how Carolyn Jones did the exact same thing in the original series. The way she lovingly arranges thorny stems in a vase must hit old-school fans with a huge dose of nostalgia. Such a tiny detail, yet it speaks volumes about staying true to the source material. And honestly, there’s something weirdly satisfying about watching someone destroy flowers with such grace.

The Gothic Architecture of Nevermore Academy

The gothic and foreboding architecture of Nevermore Academy is definitely an homage to the Addams family mansion. Its secret passageways, shadowy corners, and Victorian design are quite reminiscent of the original home. And the gargoyles around every corner and those endless shadowy hallways are nod to the family’s quirky sense of style. 

Lurch’s Signature Vibe

Blink and you might miss Lurch in this show, but every appearance hits just right. No need for constant “you rang?” callbacks — his presence alone does all the heavy lifting. That scene where he silently judges Wednesday’s potential love interests? Worth replaying at least twice. Some characters just don’t need many lines to make an impact. The casting department struck gold here – exactly the right mix of intimidating and weirdly heartwarming.

Wednesday’s Cello Performances

Whoever decided Wednesday should play the cello deserves a raise. Dark, dramatic, moody – could any instrument fit her personality better? And playing “Paint It Black” during a school concert was totally on brand. Watching her aggressive playing style tells you everything you need to know about her character without a single word. Plus, seeing an Addams kid master classical music makes total sense — this family has always had a weirdly cultured side to their creepiness.