Rachel Zegler, set to star as Snow White in Disney’s upcoming live-action adaptation, has expressed newfound admiration for the studio’s legacy. This revelation follows a considerable backlash over her earlier criticisms of Disney’s animated classics and accusations of being a diversity hire.
Zegler’s change of tune came during a conversation with fellow Disney actress Halle Bailey for Variety’s Actors on Actors interview series. The dialogue, focused on dealing with criticism for race-swapped Disney Princess castings, took an unexpected turn when Bailey asked Zegler about the pressure of breaking barriers for her community.
While acknowledging external pressure and fan expectations, Zegler admitted that her biggest critic was herself, despite all of the vocal criticism from Disney fans. She expressed her love for Disney’s filmography, spanning a century, including the 1937 animated classic Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, which she once criticized for its outdated elements.
“The cartoon is so beloved,” Zegler said during the interview. “It was the first feature-length cartoon movie, and it won honorary Oscars. And all these amazing things that happened for that film are the reason that you and I get to sit here today because it made Disney what it is. Obviously, that’s come with a lot of pressure that I’ve put on myself. I love everything that the Disney Co. has put out in the past 100 years.”
This declaration represents a shift from Zegler’s past remarks, where she distanced herself from the original Snow White narrative, citing its dated elements and expressing dissatisfaction with the love story between Snow White and the Prince. Her previous comments had sparked controversy, with some accusing her of promoting a form of pseudo-feminism.
Despite the backlash, Zegler seems determined to embrace her role and redefine Snow White’s character. She emphasized her commitment to portraying Snow White’s inner journey and her quest for self-discovery, diverging from the traditional love story narrative.
Zegler’s change in stance coincides with her acknowledgment of the online hate she has received. In the same Variety interview, she discussed how she navigates criticism, claiming she’s choosing to focus on gratitude and maintaining peace. She expressed that online negativity has strengthened her, making her resilient against further criticism.
As Rachel Zegler navigates the complex landscape of taking on the iconic role of Snow White, her newfound appreciation for Disney’s extensive history signals a shift in her perspective and potentially a bridge between her and critics who questioned her casting. Only time will tell how this transformation will impact the reception of Disney’s live-action Snow White adaptation, slated for release in 2024.
Do you think Rachel Zegler is sincere in her change of heart about Snow White and other Disney classics? Let us know in the comments.
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