Rachel Zegler, who plays the lead in the upcoming live-action “Snow White,” faced several challenges during her audition for her first major film, “West Side Story.” Despite her Colombian-American mother, she had to prove her identity repeatedly. She said that during the casting process, white executives called her several times to ask if she was legitimately Colombian-American. She even joked that she was willing to bring her grandmother, or “abuelita,” to introduce her if necessary.
Zegler was born in New Jersey. Her mother is an American citizen with ancestors from Colombia. Her father, Craig, is of Polish descent. Zegler, who is proud of her Colombian roots, says that being part of an immigrant community is a different experience in today’s society. But she loves and feels proud of her identity.
Disney’s “Snow White” is a live-action adaptation of the popular animated film released in 1937. However, the film has been the subject of much controversy even before its release. Film critic Stephen Galloway says the film could be one of the most controversial and polarizing films of the current ‘Diversity, Equity and Inclusion’ or ‘DEI’ and so-called ‘post-WAKE’ era.
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Rachel Zegler is also at the center of this controversy. Many criticized the casting of Halle Bailey in “The Little Mermaid”, and a similar controversy is seen in the case of “Snow White”. Many claim that it is a ‘WOKE’ version of the classic story.
Zegler has faced criticism not only because of her ethnic identity but also because of her political views. He has spoken out for the Palestinians on social media and has also criticized Donald Trump supporters after the 2024 US presidential election. However, he later apologized for the comments, saying he did not want to be part of a negative conversation.
Zegler also commented on some aspects of Disney’s original “Snow White” animation. He said that in that film, the prince character actually followed ‘Snow White’ and that it was a kind of ‘stalking’ or intrusive behavior. After his comments, many criticized him was analyzing the classic Disney story in an irrelevant way.
The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) has given this “Snow White” film a ‘PG’ rating. Their analysis said that the film contains scenes where a woman is deliberately poisoned’, a dangerous tree surrounds a girl’, and ‘one character jokingly threatens another person with something entering her backside’. For these reasons, many have commented that it is overly sensitive.
Despite all the controversy and discussion, many consider Disney’s “Snow White” movie to be a reflection of a new era. How it will be accepted by the audience is a matter of concern.
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FAQ
Who is Rachel Zegler?
Rachel Zegler is an American actress and singer who first came to prominence in the film “West Side Story”. She is currently starring in the lead role in Disney’s live-action “Snow White”.
Why is there so much controversy surrounding the movie “Snow White”?
The film’s character selection and storyline have been the subject of controversy. In particular, there has been controversy over Rachel Zegler’s ethnic identity, her political views, and allegations that she altered Disney’s traditional story.
What was the controversy surrounding Rachel Zegler’s ethnic identity?
When she auditioned for the role of Maria in “West Side Story”, some executives expressed doubts about her Colombian-American identity and she was repeatedly asked to prove it.
What did Rachel Zegler say about Disney’s “Snow White”?
She said that in the original “Snow White” movie, the prince character followed Snow White, which she sees as ‘stalking’ or unwanted surveillance. Many people have also criticized her for this comment.
When will the movie “Snow White” be released?
Disney has not yet announced an official release date, but the movie is likely to be released in 2025.
Does Rachel Zegler speak on political issues?
Yes, she has spoken out in support of the Palestinians and has criticized Donald Trump supporters after the 2024 US presidential election, which has caused controversy.
