Tensions are reportedly escalating behind the scenes of Disney’s upcoming live-action adaptation of “Snow White,” primarily involving its lead actresses, Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot. With Gadot portraying the Evil Queen and Zegler as the titular character, sources indicate that their on-screen rivalry has seeped into their off-screen interactions, creating a challenging environment for the film’s production.
The friction between the two actresses is partly attributed to their significant age gap and differing political opinions, particularly regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This discord has led to concerns among branding experts that the film could face backlash or boycotts from audiences. An insider noted that while Gadot enjoyed filming, she and Zegler are not friends, having merely done their job well together.
Zegler’s casting as Snow White has already drawn mixed reactions, reminiscent of the backlash faced by Halle Bailey when cast as Ariel in “The Little Mermaid.” Critics have pointed to Zegler’s prior comments about the character, where she described the original 1937 animated film as “dated” and “scary.” Her remarks about the absence of a prince in the new film, labeling the prince as a “stalker,” have sparked further outrage, leading many to accuse the film of being overly “woke.”
The situation intensified when Zegler attended a private premiere in Spain without Gadot, who promoted the film at Disneyland, highlighting their growing estrangement. Additionally, the film’s decision to use CGI for the Seven Dwarfs has sparked controversy within the little people community, further complicating the film’s reception.
In an attempt to mitigate the backlash, Zegler recently issued an apology for a controversial social media post, emphasizing the need for peace and understanding. As the film’s release approaches, fans remain divided, with many wondering if the drama surrounding its stars will overshadow the movie itself.