Rachel Zegler Reflects on Snow White Controversy Ahead of Film Release

LOS ANGELES, CA — Rachel Zegler, the actress cast as the titular character in Disney‘s upcoming live-action remake of “Snow White,” addressed the backlash stemming from her previous comments and the controversy surrounding her casting.

Zegler’s casting in the film, first announced in 2021, faced criticism primarily due to her Colombian descent. The situation escalated when she described the original 1937 animated film as “dated” and remarked that the prince “literally stalks” the princess. This sparked further outrage, particularly from fans who pledged to boycott the film following her outspoken remarks against former President Donald Trump.

In a recent interview translated by The Hollywood Reporter, Zegler interpreted the reactions to her comments as a reflection of passionate affection for the film. “I interpret people’s feelings about this film as a passion for it,” she said. “What an honor to be part of something that people feel so passionate about. We’re not always going to have the same feelings as everyone around us, and all we can do is give the best of ourselves.”

The actress also expressed pride in the representation of her Colombian heritage while emphasizing the need for diverse voices in Hollywood. “I understand that the community doesn’t want to be seen as a monolith, but the reality of being Latino and working in this industry is that we try to represent the entire diaspora,” she explained. “I know where I have been, I represent it in my narrative and I carry it in my heart every day.”

Discussing the differences between the original and the new adaptation, Zegler remarked, “It’s very important for the public to know that Disney has found this beautiful and delicate balance between the animated classic that everyone knows and loves from 1937, and at the same time, introduces it to this new generation.”

She highlighted the core attributes of Snow White’s character. “Her superpower is her heart,” Zegler stated. “There is no supernatural power that Snow White possesses beyond her love for humanity, for all living creatures and her fundamental belief that there is goodness in everything. That’s something I really believe the world could take advantage of more.”

The live-action “Snow White” is set to release in theaters on March 21, 2025, as Disney continues its trend of modernizing beloved animated classics for contemporary audiences.