Rachel Zegler on ‘Snow White’ Backlash: “I Refuse to Assimilate”

Rachel Zegler has spoken candidly about the intense backlash she received following her casting as Snow White in Disney’s live-action remake, describing the experience as “really confusing.” The actress, who is of Colombian heritage, faced criticism for not fitting the traditional depiction of the character, as well as for comments she made regarding the original film and her support for Palestinian causes.

Facing Criticism from Multiple Sides

Zegler’s experience mirrors previous casting controversies, including the backlash she received for her role as Maria in the 2021 film West Side Story. She explained to Harper’s Bazaar, “I was told I wasn’t enough of one thing for ‘West Side Story’ and too much of another for ‘Snow White.’”

The actress expressed pride in her Colombian heritage, stating, “I grew up proud of being Colombian – eating the food, wearing the dresses, drinking the coffee, doing all the things that were so intrinsic to who I was as a kid and who I am as an adult.” However, she also noted a perceived expectation to conform to a single identity in the public eye. “But I do think there’s an argument to be made that, in the public eye at least, when you’re two things, you’re simultaneously nothing. But I refuse to assimilate for anybody else’s comfort.”

Navigating Controversy and Safety Concerns

Zegler acknowledged that some of the criticism stemmed from her political stances and social media activity. Although she stands by her commitment to using her platform for social change, she reflected on the experience as “a complete study in intent versus impact.”

The backlash extended to threats against her safety, leading Zegler to express regret for her online presence. “If I’d been able to predict everything that would come my way, the threats to my safety, I would have just thrown my phone into the ocean. I think any sane person would have,” she stated.

Recent Projects and Future Endeavors

Following the release of Snow White, Zegler received acclaim for her performance in the UK stage production of Evita. She is also slated to appear in concert performances of The Last Five Years alongside Ben Platt at the London Palladium, Hollywood Bowl, and Radio City Music Hall [Variety].