In a dramatic turn of events surrounding Disney’s highly anticipated “Snow White” remake, actress Rachel Zegler has publicly clashed with her co-star Gal Gadot over comments regarding the film’s direction and Hollywood’s recent trend towards “woke” storytelling. Zegler’s emotional response during a live television appearance has sparked widespread debate about the film’s approach to its beloved source material.
Zegler, who plays the titular role in the 2025 adaptation, expressed her frustration on stage, stating, “It’s so upsetting,” while reflecting on her name appearing alongside the film’s logo. The production, which has reportedly seen a staggering $300 million invested, is facing significant backlash from fans who feel that the new version strays too far from the charm of the original 1937 classic.
Critics of the remake are particularly unhappy with the decision to alter key elements of Snow White’s story. Notably, the character’s iconic origin, which is rooted in her fair skin, has been replaced with a new backstory involving her surviving a snowstorm. Fans are also dismayed by the removal of traditional love stories and the transformation of the Seven Dwarfs into “seven diverse magical beings.”
The controversy is further fueled by Zegler’s outspoken views on the need for a modernized narrative. She has emphasized that her Snow White will not be portrayed as a damsel in distress awaiting rescue from a prince, but rather as a character aspiring to leadership. This shift has been met with mixed reactions, as many traditionalists feel that the essence of the fairy tale is being compromised in favor of contemporary themes.
Gal Gadot, who plays the evil queen, has emerged as a more stable and popular figure amidst the chaos. Her strong presence has captured audience interest, leading Disney to shift its marketing focus towards her character. Gadot’s portrayal, which remains consistent with the classic villain archetype, seems to resonate better with fans compared to Zegler’s politically charged interpretation.
Reports indicate that tensions on set have escalated, with allegations of Zegler throwing shade at Gadot, claiming that the latter is overshadowing her role. Insiders suggest that Zegler has even demanded cuts to Gadot’s scenes, highlighting a deepening rift between the two actresses.
As Disney grapples with the unfolding drama, industry experts are raising questions about the broader implications of this disconnect between their creative direction and audience expectations. Many fans are feeling alienated by what they perceive as an overly progressive agenda, arguing that the studio risks losing its loyal base in the pursuit of modern relevance.
This ongoing saga reflects a larger trend in Hollywood, where attempts to reimagine classic stories often clash with the nostalgia and expectations of long-time fans. The situation raises critical questions about whether studios will prioritize authentic storytelling over contemporary political narratives.
As the release date approaches, all eyes are on Disney to see if they can navigate this turbulent landscape. Will they return to the roots that made these stories beloved in the first place, or will they continue down the path of modernized retellings? The answer may very well determine the success of this remake and shape the future of reboots in Hollywood.
