Title: ‘Snow White’ Star Rachel Zegler Sparks Controversy with New Live-Action Adaptation
Subtitle: Zegler’s commentary about the film’s storyline and working conditions ignite a debate among conservatives and Disney fans
Date: [Insert Date]
By [Author Name]
Disney’s upcoming live-action remake of “Snow White” may not hit theaters until 2024, but lead actress Rachel Zegler has already caused a stir with her recent comments about the film’s retelling. Zegler, best known for her role in “West Side Story,” shared her thoughts during an interview at the 2022 D23 Expo.
In the resurfaced video, Zegler acknowledges the problematic aspects of the original 1937 animated film, particularly the focus on Snow White’s love story with a prince who essentially stalks her. She boldly states, “Weird! Weird. We didn’t do that this time.” Zegler assures viewers that the new adaptation will take a different approach, placing less emphasis on the conventional love story, despite casting Andrew Burnap as the male lead.
Predictably, Zegler’s remarks triggered a backlash from both conservatives and passionate Disney fans. Right-wing author Matt Walsh, known for his controversial views on transgender issues, tweeted, “Disney is trying a really interesting marketing strategy where the star of the new Snow White spends a year before the movie’s release publicly talking about how much she despises Snow White.”
This is not the first time Zegler’s comments about the film have caused controversy. Last year, during an interview with co-star Gal Gadot, the actress criticized the outdated depiction of women in the original cartoon. Zegler expressed how the film’s representation of women in positions of power no longer aligns with modern ideas and expectations.
More recently, Zegler’s statements regarding the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike further fueled the debate. During an interview with Entertainment Tonight, she defended her right to fair compensation, stating, “If I’m gonna stand there 18 hours a day in the dress of an iconic Disney Princess, I deserve to be paid for every hour that it’s streamed online.” Critics accused Zegler of entitlement, citing her attitude as unbecoming of an actress playing a beloved character like Snow White.
As social media erupted with both support and backlash, YouTuber Amala Ekpunobi labeled Zegler’s comment as “entitlement at its finest,” questioning her suitability for the role. TalkTV commentator Alex Armstrong echoed similar sentiments, describing Zegler as “entitled, smug, and fame-hungry.”
While critics have voiced their displeasure, it seems Zegler is unbothered by their opinions. Her interviews convey a sense of independence and a mission to redefine the iconic character for a new generation. As the star of the highly anticipated “Snow White” live-action adaptation, Zegler’s intent is clear: to reimagine the story with a fresh perspective.
As the debate continues to rage, it remains evident that Zegler’s portrayal of Snow White will undoubtedly challenge traditional expectations and spark meaningful discussions about gender roles, representation, and fair compensation in the entertainment industry.
In response to the controversy, Disney has yet to comment or address the grievances expressed by conservatives and ardent fans. As production on the film progresses, it remains to be seen how Zegler’s vision and the alterations to the classic story will be received by audiences when “Snow White” finally hits the silver screen.