Revamped "Snow White" Rekindles Controversy for Rachel Zegler
- Actress marks premiere of "Snow White" production
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Amid the grand unveiling of her big-screen debut in the live-action "Snow White", the 23-year-old sensation, Rachel Zegler, ignited the virtual world by posting a nostalgic trip down memory lane on her Instagram. Her selection of childhood photos, swathed in a Snow White costume with an ear-to-ear grin, took center stage along with snaps from the film set in the timeless Snow White regalia. Zegler's caption cheered the audience, "Dreams really do come true! 'Snow White' is now in theaters!"
Shedding Light on the Dark Side
Despite the cinematic achievement and Zegler's apparent elation, her journey to play the iconic fairytale character has been marred with controversy. The Latina actress, with "skin as white as snow," has faced intense criticism, particularly her casting. Gossip havens have whirled with whispers about her "suitability" for the role, not forgetting Gal Gadot's casting as the envious, beauty-obsessed Evil Queen.
Public scrutiny has not been confined to their physical appearances; political preoccupations have further fueled a tempestuous maelstrom around them. While Gadot is vocal about her support for Israel on social media, Zegler has been a fervent champion for Palestine.
Backlash: The New Normal for Zegler
Zegler himself has baby-faced a barrage of ridicule, embroiled in discussions about the antiquated nature of the original animated film's gender roles. In an interview with "Variety", he expressed thoughts of the tale being outdated and sexist. "The prince won't save her, and she won't be dreaming of true love" - a decisive attempt to modernize his portrayal.
Delving Deeper
Political Storm
Following the trailer release of Snow White, an August 2024 post featuring the phrase "and always remember, free Palestine" sparked a media frenzy. The ensuing fallout culminated in death threats towards her co-star Gal Gadot and intensified security measures from Disney, who was keen to safeguard Zegler's welfare[1][4]. Wyoming-born Zegler's open criticism of former U.S. President Donald Trump and his devotees further escalated the controversy[1][2]. The film's producers ultimately enlisted a social media specialist to manage Zegler's online presence[2][5].
Casting Controversy
Zegler's Latina heritage initially stirred a maelstrom of contention over her playing Snow White, with some questioning her physical appearance against the character's traditional description[3][4]. Zegler also faced challenges legitimizing her Latina roots during her West Side Story tenure[4].
Allegations of Racism
Anguished discussions over Zegler's casting have been interwoven with allegations of racism, as critics suggest her ethnicity was unduly targeted[3]. Zegler's skillful acting prowess has been lauded, yet her comments about re-evaluating the original Snow White story's gender dynamics have garnered broader censure[3].
Flickering Box Office Success
The simmering controversy and insistent backlash have been attributed to the film's lackluster box office performance, with some suggesting Zegler's political controversies affected its popularity[4]. Jonah Platt, the producer's son, contended that Zegler's political pursuits negatively impacted the movie's success[4].
Public Advocates
Meghan McCain, a notable public figure, made a case for giving Zegler space to learn from her experiences, conceding the young actress's youth[5]. In spite of the barrage of criticism, countless supporters have rallied around Zegler on social media[2].
- Despite the online backlash and controversy surrounding her casting as Snow White, Rachel Zegler celebrated the film's release with a nostalgic Instagram post, quoting the lyrics, "I'm gonna be the one who's gonna make you cry."
- The release of the live-action "Snow White" sparked a public debate about the racial undertones in Rachel Zegler's casting, leading to comments about her heritage from actress Rachel Leigh Cook, who remarked harshly, "I personally find it strange that Hollywood is now going out of its way to cast actresses like Rachel Zegler as Snow White."
- In an unexpected twist, Rachel Zegler's pop vocal performance of the classic "Snow White" ballad received praise from critics, with one writing, "It's a crying shame that Rachel Zegler's Snow White wasn't given more screen time to showcase her raw, powerful voice."
