Disney’s live-action remake of Snow White stirred significant controversy in 2025, prompting star Rachel Zegler to finally address the various issues surrounding the film. Discussions about the portrayal of the Seven Dwarfs, alterations to the storyline, and the casting of Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot became hot topics online, making the Disney film a regular subject in political discussions.
Regrettably, many legitimate critics were drowned out by personal attacks, with Rachel Zegler facing unjust scrutiny from numerous online communities leading up to the film’s debut. In an interview with i-D, Rachel Zegler reflected on the impact of being the target of these attacks on her, as well as the valuable lessons she is taking with her into the future of her career.
Zegler shares that she leaned significantly on her psychiatrist during the film’s production, finding comfort in the notion that “What [she’s] experiencing isn’t typical.”
Although she condemns those who have targeted her online, Rachel Zegler chooses not to see herself as a victim, stating, “I believe a victim mentality is a choice, and I opt not to take it.”
When things really took a turn for the worse, she decided to leave New York and return to her home in New Jersey, where she spent quality time with her family and her dog.
According to Rachel Zegler, “My psychiatrist has been there for me through everything. What you’re experiencing isn’t normal. That phrase has done wonders for me in various situations throughout my life.”
She also started medication for her anxiety, which she describes as a true game changer, as she was struggling to function. Before long, she found herself able to put into perspective issues that once seemed overwhelming and impossible to tackle. There’s a narrative online portraying Zegler as someone who sees herself as a victim of circumstances.
As per Rachel Zegler, “I wanted to navigate life in a way that instilled confidence in how I moved through the world. I believe that adopting a victim mentality is a choice, and it’s not one I make. I also refuse to embrace negativity when faced with challenges. Instead, I opt for positivity, light, and happiness. I genuinely believe that happiness can be a choice, and every morning I wake up feeling fortunate to live the life I have.”
The Implications of Rachel Zegler’ Statements For Snow White
Listening to Rachel Zegler’s viewpoint on the Snow White controversies serves as a reminder that, despite being celebrities, the individuals in these films are still human beings. It’s easy for some to assume that their online remarks go unnoticed by those connected to the film.
Yet, it’s quite simple for someone involved in a movie to come across these negative remarks. The situation with Snow White meant that Rachel Zegler was subjected to a flood of derogatory comments about herself, and such an overwhelming wave of negativity could impact anyone’s mental well-being.
Regrettably, a significant number of the criticisms directed at Rachel Zegler and the film Snow White were rooted in various forms of bigotry. Additionally, Zegler faced backlash for her political views and her vocal support for Palestinians.
Given that Snow White was a high-profile release, many malicious individuals seized the chance to target the actress and others associated with the film, seemingly motivated by nothing more than a desire to bully and spread hate. This situation intensified the discourse surrounding Snow White, as the film became a tool for attacking those connected to it.
Our Perspective On The Fallout From The Snow White Controversies
Film criticism serves a valuable purpose, and engaging in discussions about the merits and quality of artistic works is entirely appropriate. Nevertheless, Snow White stands as a reminder for those of us participating in online film communities to address the behaviors that unjustly targeted Rachel Zegler.