In the midst of ongoing cultural debates, Rachel Zegler, the star of Disney’s upcoming live-action remake of Snow White, has found herself at the center of a controversy following her critical remarks about President-elect Donald Trump. The 23-year-old actress expressed her discontent on social media regarding Trump’s return to office, capturing the attention of right-wing commentator Megyn Kelly, who demanded that Zegler be replaced in the film because of her comments.
Zegler, who is also performing as Juliet in Broadway’s revival of Romeo and Juliet, took to Instagram to voice her feelings about the political climate, describing Trump’s supporters as alarming and expressing her sadness over the situation. Later, she issued an apology for her outburst, acknowledging that her emotions had influenced her words and emphasizing her desire for peace and understanding amid political discord.
Megyn Kelly responded on her Ruthless podcast, criticizing Zegler and suggesting that Disney should reconsider its casting choice. Kelly’s remarks included references to another Disney controversy involving Gina Carano, who was fired from her role in The Mandalorian for comments deemed offensive. Kelly highlighted the irony of Zegler’s criticism of half the country while portraying a beloved character.
While Zegler’s casting as a Latina woman in a traditionally European role has itself spurred debate concerning political correctness, she defended the decision, asserting that the new version of Snow White aims to present a modern story with a more empowered protagonist.
Although Zegler has since apologized, it remains uncertain if Kelly was aware of this prior to her podcast recording. Disney has wrapped production on Snow White, which is set to release on March 21, 2025, making it unlikely that changes to the cast will be feasible at this stage.
This incident reflects the growing intersection of entertainment and politics, showcasing how public figures are often scrutinized for their views. As society navigates through these complex conversations, it is essential to foster understanding and discourse, recognizing that artistic expression can take many forms. With diversity and representation gaining traction, films like the new Snow White aim to inspire a broader audience while challenging traditional narratives.
Ultimately, this situation serves as a reminder of the impactful role celebrities play in society and the potential for change through thoughtful dialogue.