Rachel Zegler Reflects on Backlash Surrounding Her Casting as Snow White

Rachel Zegler says the backlash she received after being cast in Disney’s live-action remake of Snow White was difficult to understand, describing the criticism as contradictory and rooted in debates about identity.

In an interview with Harper's Bazaar, Zegler discussed the reaction to her casting in the film, which sparked criticism online from some commentators who argued the role should have been played by a white actress. Zegler, whose mother is Colombian and whose father is of European descent, said the reaction was especially confusing given the criticism she previously faced when she was cast as Maria in West Side Story.

“I was told I wasn’t enough of one thing for ‘West Side Story’ and too much of another for ‘Snow White,’” she said.

Zegler explained that she has always been proud of her Colombian heritage and the cultural traditions she grew up with. At the same time, she said the public reaction to her casting highlighted how mixed-heritage identities can be interpreted in conflicting ways.

“When you’re two things, you’re simultaneously nothing,” she said, referring to the way identity can be perceived in public discourse. Zegler added that she has no intention of altering how she presents herself to accommodate criticism. “I refuse to assimilate for anybody else’s comfort.”

The actress also addressed the broader controversies that surrounded the film’s promotional campaign. During the press cycle for Snow White, Zegler posted messages on social media expressing support for Palestine, which triggered another wave of criticism and online debate.

Although she continues to stand by her belief that public figures can use their platforms to discuss social issues, Zegler said the experience taught her the difference between intention and the impact that public statements can have. “You live and you learn,” she said. “There’s a caution that comes with that.”

In 2024, shortly after the first trailer for Snow White debuted at Disney’s D23 fan convention, Zegler posted a message thanking fans for their support and later added a separate comment that read, “And always remember, free Palestine.” The post drew significant attention online and contributed to a wider political debate surrounding the film.

Looking back, Zegler said she did not anticipate the scale of the reaction or the personal consequences that followed. She described receiving threats related to the controversy and said the situation made her reconsider how she uses social media.

“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,” she said.

Zegler first gained widespread recognition for her breakout performance as Maria in West Side Story, directed by Steven Spielberg. Her casting in Snow White marked another major studio lead role early in her career and placed her at the center of ongoing cultural debates about representation in film adaptations of classic characters.

Despite the controversies surrounding the project, Zegler said she remains focused on continuing her work as an actor and on navigating the public attention that accompanies large studio productions. For her, the experience surrounding Snow White ultimately highlighted the complexities of identity and public scrutiny in the entertainment industry.