Rachel Zegler has once again set the internet ablaze, this time with a stunning photoshoot that has fans dubbing her a “modern Snow White” with a fiery twist. In a recent Instagram post, the 23-year-old actress and singer donned a striking red ensemble—a deep burgundy corset dress with a sparkling skirt—that perfectly complemented her bold persona. Holding a vintage rotary phone and a pair of scissors, Zegler’s sultry pose and fierce expression have sparked comparisons to the classic Disney princess she portrayed in the 2025 live-action Snow White, but with a contemporary edge that’s “too hot to handle.” As the image goes viral, let’s dive into the buzz surrounding Rachel’s latest look, her journey as Snow White, and what this means for her career amidst ongoing controversies.

A Modern Fairytale Look

The viral photo, shared on Zegler’s Instagram on April 10, 2025, captures her in a glamorous setting that blends retro and modern vibes. The deep red corset dress, with its structured bodice and shimmering skirt, accentuates her figure, while the vintage rotary phone adds a playful, nostalgic touch. Zegler’s choice to hold a pair of scissors in her other hand, seemingly cutting her own hair, has fans speculating about the symbolic meaning—perhaps a nod to breaking free from the traditional Snow White image that has both defined and constrained her in recent years.

Fans were quick to draw parallels between Zegler’s look and her role as Snow White, but with a modern, empowered twist. “Rachel in red is giving Snow White 2.0—fierce, bold, and unapologetic!” one fan commented. Another wrote, “She’s too hot to handle in this fit! Disney could never.” The photoshoot, reportedly part of a promotional campaign for an upcoming magazine feature, showcases Zegler’s versatility as a style icon, blending classic fairytale elements with a contemporary, edgy flair.

The Snow White Connection

Zegler’s association with Snow White stems from her starring role in Disney’s 2025 live-action remake, where she played the iconic princess opposite Gal Gadot’s Evil Queen. The film, however, has been a lightning rod for controversy since its release on March 21, 2025. While Zegler’s vocal performance and on-screen charisma earned some praise, the movie itself was panned for its lackluster CGI, a disjointed script, and controversial changes to the original story, such as portraying Snow White as a feminist leader rather than a damsel in distress. The film’s box office performance was disastrous, grossing just $87 million worldwide against a $270 million budget, according to Box Office Mojo.

Much of the backlash centered on Zegler herself, whose comments about the 1937 animated film being “dated” and her outspoken political views—particularly her pro-Palestine stance—drew ire from some fans. Social media platforms like X erupted with hashtags like #NotMySnowWhite, with users criticizing her casting and accusing her of disrespecting the Disney legacy. Despite the criticism, Zegler has remained defiant, using her platform to advocate for causes she believes in, even as Disney reportedly hired a “social media guru” to manage her online presence, per a report from The Hollywood Reporter.

A Career at a Crossroads

The viral “Rachel in Red” photoshoot comes at a pivotal moment for Zegler, who is navigating the fallout from Snow White while working to redefine her public image. Despite the film’s failure, Zegler has a slate of upcoming projects that could help her rebound. She’s set to star in a West End production of Evita later in 2025, a role that will allow her to showcase her musical theater roots—she first gained fame after being cast as Maria in Steven Spielberg’s 2021 West Side Story. Additionally, Zegler is rumored to be in talks for a lead role in a new A24 drama, though details remain under wraps, according to Deadline.

Industry insiders suggest that Zegler’s bold new look is a deliberate move to distance herself from the Snow White controversy and establish herself as a multifaceted star. “Rachel is showing she’s more than a Disney princess—she’s a modern icon with edge and depth,” a source close to the actress told Variety. The red ensemble, often associated with power and passion, contrasts sharply with the soft, pastel tones of her Snow White character, signaling a shift in how Zegler wants to be perceived.

Fan Reactions and Cultural Impact

The “Rachel in Red” photo has sparked a frenzy on social media, with fans and critics alike weighing in. On X, the image has garnered over 500,000 likes and thousands of comments, with many praising Zegler’s confidence and style. “This is the Snow White we deserved—Rachel is serving looks and attitude!” one user posted. Others, however, remain critical, with some referencing the Snow White backlash: “She can dress up all she wants, but she still ruined a classic,” a detractor wrote.

The photoshoot also taps into a broader cultural trend of reimagining fairytale characters for a modern audience. Recent years have seen characters like Cinderella and Belle reinterpreted with feminist undertones, as in Cinderella (2021) and Beauty and the Beast (2017). Zegler’s bold take on Snow White—both in the film and in this photoshoot—reflects a generation’s desire for heroines who are assertive and independent, even if it risks alienating traditionalists.

What’s Next for Rachel Zegler?

As Rachel Zegler continues to navigate the highs and lows of fame, her “Rachel in Red” moment signals a new chapter. The photoshoot not only reaffirms her status as a fashion icon but also highlights her resilience in the face of adversity. While the Snow White controversy may linger, Zegler’s upcoming projects and bold public persona suggest she’s determined to carve her own path, one that transcends the fairytale narrative.

For now, fans can’t get enough of Rachel in red—a modern Snow White who’s proving she’s too hot to handle, both on and off the screen. As she continues to evolve, one thing is clear: Zegler is a force to be reckoned with, and she’s just getting started.