Rachel Zegler Claps Back At Criticism Over Snow White And Comments On Toxic Disney Fans

The casting of actors in iconic roles often stirs wild debates when a beloved character is reimagined in a different light. When Disney announced that Rachel Zegler would play Snow White in their live-action remake, it sparked a wave of controversy, much of which was unwarranted.

Zegler, an actress of Colombian heritage, has faced significant challenges since her casting, navigating criticism and backlash not just for her background but also for her comments about the original film. When Disney revealed Zegler's casting in 2021, some reactions were racially charged, as a few critics wrongly argued that her heritage disqualified her from portraying Snow White.

Despite her growing success in Hollywood and evident talent, Zegler was unfairly targeted with these baseless criticisms. This initial negativity set the tone for her challenges in the following years.

By 2022, the criticism extended beyond her background. Zegler’s comments about the 1937 animated version of Snow White also drew attention.

During an interview, she referred to the original film’s portrayal of the relationship between Snow White and the prince as "weird," particularly emphasizing that the prince’s actions came across as stalking.

"There's a big focus on her love story with a guy who literally stalks her," she said.

Unfortunately, her critique, which sought to focus on the evolution of female characters in modern adaptations, was misinterpreted by many, leading to another wave of backlash.

"In all honesty, it made me sad that it was taken in such a way because I believe that women can do anything. But I also believe that they can do everything," the actress explained.

Rachel Zegler is set to portray Snow White in the upcoming film.

In a recent interview with Variety, Zegler opened up about the adverse reaction to her remarks, expressing disappointment that her words had been misunderstood. Her intention was never to dismiss the importance of love or romance in the story but to emphasize that female characters, like Snow White, can have multi-dimensional aspirations.

"I would never want to box someone in and say, 'If you want love, then you can't work.' Or 'If you want to work, then you can't have a family.' It's not true. It's never been true. It can be very upsetting when things get taken out of context or jokes don't land," explained Zegler.Getty Images

The actress was disappointed that her comments were misunderstood.

Disney

Despite her clarification, some critics continued to misrepresent her words. Zegler pointed out that the love story has always been a part of the film but noted that it was not the focal point of her previous comments.

She highlighted a broader societal issue—how women in the public eye are often unfairly scrutinized. Reflecting on her experiences and witnessing how women are treated in various arenas, Zegler said,

"I’ve watched women get torn down my whole life, my whole career."

She also voiced concerns that this trend of undue criticism might continue, referencing the harsh treatment female figures often endure.

In the realm of entertainment, the psychology of fandom plays a significant role in how audiences react to changes in beloved characters. Dr. John Gottman, a leading relationship expert, points out that fans often view these characters as extensions of their identities.

When a character is reinterpreted, it can feel like a personal affront to fans’ cherished memories. To mitigate this, media creators should engage with their audience through open forums or social media, allowing fans to express their feelings and concerns constructively.

This can transform criticism into a collaborative dialogue rather than a divisive conflict.

Zegler pointed out that children can easily grasp the idea that the same princess can be interpreted in various ways.

Despite the backlash, Zegler has remained resilient, refusing to let negativity define her experience. She has spoken about the importance of not giving power to those who aim to bring her down.

While she admits that stepping back from social media might provide her critics a sense of victory, Zegler remains focused on her work and personal growth.

In addressing the controversy surrounding her casting, Zegler recalls her childhood memories of watching diverse portrayals of Cinderella. She fondly remembers seeing Brandy as the titular character in the 1997 version of Cinderella alongside Whitney Houston.

Zegler’s point is clear—children can easily accept multiple versions of the same character, showing that the interpretation of iconic roles need not be tied to a singular vision of race or appearance.

Disney

Navigating Cultural Sensitivity

Dr. Angela Duckworth, a renowned psychologist known for her research on grit and perseverance, emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural context in media representations.

She suggests that when casting decisions spark controversy, it’s often rooted in deeper cultural narratives that shape audience expectations. Dr. Duckworth states that fostering a dialogue about these narratives can lead to greater empathy and understanding.

Such discussions could help audiences appreciate the nuances of reimagined characters and create a space for constructive criticism rather than outright backlash.

As Disney's live-action Snow White prepares to come out in March 2025, Rachel Zegler’s experience shows how important it is to talk about representation and how movie characters are changing today. Even though she has faced much criticism, Zegler is dedicated to showing that characters like Snow White can mean more than they did before.

Her journey reminds us that diversity matters and that classic stories can be retold in ways that fit today’s world. By staying strong through all the backlash, Zegler sets a great example of how to stand up for change and inclusivity in entertainment.

Understanding the Deeper Patterns

As we navigate the complexities of modern adaptations, it’s essential to foster an environment that encourages understanding and empathy. Dr. Laurie Santos, a prominent psychology professor, advocates for cultivating a growth mindset in discussions about media representation.

By prioritizing open dialogues and promoting awareness of diverse perspectives, we can mitigate the backlash surrounding casting choices. Santos emphasizes that this approach not only enriches the conversation but also promotes a healthier relationship between fans and creators, encouraging collaboration and innovation in storytelling.