Rachel Zegler has addressed the backlash surrounding Disney’s live-action Snow White and discussed the film’s adaptation. In a recent interview, she spoke about audience reactions, her role and Disney’s approach to updating the classic. Meanwhile, discussions about the movie’s release, casting, and changes from the original continue.
Rachel Zegler believes Snow White backlash was due to fans’ ‘Passion’ for the character
Rachel Zegler addressed the backlash surrounding Disney’s live-action Snow White in an interview with Vogue México.
She described the public reaction as a reflection of their deep connection to the character. “I interpret people’s feelings about this film as their passion for her,” Zegler said. “And what an honor to be a part of something for which people feel so much passion. We’re not always going to have the same sentiments as those around us and all that we can do is give the best of ourselves” (via Deadline).
Zegler’s casting as Snow White in 2021 faced controversy, with some criticism focused on her Colombian and Polish heritage. She compared it to Halle Bailey’s experience as Ariel in The Little Mermaid, saying, “Now I see what a beautiful experience it was for all the Black girls around the world to see Halle play Ariel in The Little Mermaid.”
The second wave of backlash followed Zegler’s 2022 D23 Expo comments, calling the 1937 film “dated” and Prince Charming a “stalker.” In her interview with Vogue México, she emphasized Disney’s balance between honoring the classic and adapting it for a new generation.
“It’s very important for the audience to know that Disney has found this beautiful and delicate equilibrium between the 1937 animated classic that everyone knows and loves, and at the same time, presents it to this new generation,” she said.
Zegler also discussed her interpretation of the character, highlighting Snow White’s defining qualities. “Her superpower is her heart… there is no supernatural power beyond her love for humanity.” She reflected on returning for reshoots, saying, “You learn so much more as an actor and as a person when you return to that set.”
Snow White is scheduled for release on March 21.
Originally reported by Anubhav Chaudhry on ComingSoon.
