Rachel Zegler Addresses Snow White Backlash in Candid Interview
Sydney, 8 January 2026 – Rachel Zegler, the star of Disney’s 2025 live-action Snow White remake, has opened up about the intense backlash she faced, attributing her resilience to therapy and medication while defending her outspoken views on social issues.
The Snow White Controversy
Rachel Zegler, who portrayed Snow White in the 2025 Disney film, encountered significant criticism before and after its release on 21 March 2025. The remake, directed by Marc Webb and starring Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, aimed to modernise the 1937 classic but drew ire for changes to the story, including a reduced focus on the romantic subplot. Zegler herself sparked outrage in 2022 by calling the original film’s prince a “stalker” and stating that her version of Snow White would prioritise leadership over romance.
Additionally, her casting as a Latina actress in the role of a character traditionally depicted with “skin as white as snow” led to online abuse. Political statements, such as posting “Free Palestine” on social media and expressing anti-Trump sentiments, further inflamed critics. Disney reportedly intervened by hiring a social media guru to vet her posts amid concerns over the film’s troubled production, which included costly reshoots.
Key Facts About the Film and Backlash
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 21 March 2025 |
| Runtime | 1 hour 49 minutes |
| Rating | PG |
| Box Office Performance | Flopped amid negative reviews |
| Zegler’s Age at Casting | 23 |
| Key Controversy | Casting, modernisations, and political posts |
Zegler’s Response and Resilience
In a recent interview with British magazine i-D, Zegler revealed that therapy and anti-anxiety medication were crucial in coping with the backlash. She described the experience as “not normal” and emphasised that speaking out on issues like Palestinian rights was worth the risk, stating there are “worse things” than professional fallout. Despite the film’s poor reception, Zegler interpreted the passion as a sign of its cultural impact, telling Vogue Mexico that it was an “honour” to be part of something people cared about deeply.
Zegler also addressed criticisms of her comments on the original film, apologising for resurfaced remarks while highlighting the remake’s focus on empowerment. She defended her support for Palestinian children, insisting it was not antisemitic and that advocating for all children was a moral duty.
Looking Ahead
Beyond Snow White, Zegler is poised for new opportunities. She is set to star in Evita in London’s West End this summer and has been praised for her roles in projects like West Side Story. In a Glamour interview, she reflected on her rise, noting that her candour and activism define her as a “new kind of star.” Despite the challenges, Zegler remains unapologetic, encouraging others to embrace their authentic selves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main controversy surrounding Rachel Zegler’s casting in Snow White?
Zegler faced backlash for being cast as Snow White due to her Latina heritage, with critics arguing it did not align with the character’s traditional depiction. She also drew criticism for comments modernising the story and reducing the prince’s role.
How did Disney respond to Zegler’s political posts?
Disney hired a social media guru to review Zegler’s posts before the film’s release, amid concerns that her statements, including “Free Palestine” and anti-Trump remarks, could alienate audiences.
What has Zegler said about the film’s reception?
Zegler viewed the intense reactions as a testament to the film’s significance, stating in interviews that it was an honour to evoke such passion, even if opinions differed.