The release of Disney’s live-action Snow White remake on March 21, 2025, was anticipated as a nostalgic revival of a timeless classic. However, the film has been mired in controversy, with much of the spotlight on Rachel Zegler, the actress cast as Snow White. From her polarizing comments about the 1937 animated original to her outspoken political activism, Zegler has faced relentless scrutiny. The situation escalated recently when Gal Gadot, who plays the Evil Queen in the remake, reportedly addressed the ongoing drama, prompting what some fans and media outlets describe as a public “meltdown” from Zegler. This article explores the unfolding saga, the reasons behind the backlash, and the sentiment fueling calls for a different star, like Selena Gomez, to have taken the role.

The Backdrop: Zegler’s Controversial Journey as Snow White

Rachel Zegler, a Golden Globe winner for her role in West Side Story, was announced as Disney’s Snow White in 2021. The casting initially sparked debate due to the character’s traditional description as having “skin as white as snow,” with some criticizing the choice of a Latina actress of Colombian and Polish descent. Disney countered this by reimagining the character’s name as tied to a snowstorm survival story, not her complexion. However, the racial controversy was only the beginning.

Zegler’s promotional interviews for Snow White further inflamed tensions. In 2023, she described the original 1937 film as “dated” and criticized its prince as a “stalker,” emphasizing that the remake would focus on Snow White’s leadership rather than romance. “It’s no longer 1937,” she said, “and we absolutely wrote a Snow White that’s not gonna be saved by the prince.” These remarks were perceived by some fans as dismissive of the beloved classic, leading to accusations that Zegler was ungrateful for the opportunity. Posts on X echoed this sentiment, with one user stating, “Rachel Zegler’s comments about Snow White were so disrespectful. Selena Gomez would’ve honored the role better.”

Zegler’s political activism added fuel to the fire. In August 2024, she posted on X, “and always remember, free Palestine,” alongside Snow White promotional content, drawing criticism from some who felt it was inappropriate for a Disney project. Her post-election comments in November 2024, including Instagram stories wishing “Trump supporters and Trump himself never know peace,” further alienated conservative audiences. High-profile figures like Megyn Kelly called for Disney to replace Zegler, arguing that her activism clashed with the family-friendly ethos of Snow White.

The Box Office Flop and Industry Fallout

The Snow White remake underperformed at the box office, grossing $43 million domestically and $87 million globally in its opening weekend against a $350 million budget. Industry insiders speculated that Zegler’s controversies contributed to the film’s poor reception. Jonah Platt, son of producer Marc Platt, claimed in a now-deleted Instagram post that Zegler’s actions “clearly hurt the film’s box office.” This narrative led to scapegoating, with some fans suggesting that a less polarizing star, such as Selena Gomez, could have salvaged the project. Gomez, known for her Disney roots in Wizards of Waverly Place and her relatable persona, was seen as a safer, more marketable choice.

Gal Gadot Breaks Her Silence

Amid the mounting criticism, Gal Gadot, who plays the Evil Queen, reportedly addressed the situation, though specifics of her statement remain vague in public reports. A post on X from April 21, 2025, claimed, “Gal Gadot BREAKS SILENCE & DESTROYS Rachel Zegler!” linking to a YouTube video, suggesting that Gadot’s comments were critical of Zegler’s handling of the role or the surrounding controversies. While the exact content of Gadot’s response is unverified, sources indicate she expressed frustration with the negative publicity surrounding the film, potentially distancing herself from Zegler’s actions. Gadot, known for her poised and professional demeanor, has largely avoided the controversy until now, making her statement a significant moment in the saga.

Gadot’s involvement in Snow White was already a point of intrigue, given her star power as Wonder Woman. Her reported comments may reflect a desire to protect the film’s legacy and her own reputation, especially as the project faced challenges like a writers’ strike, a set fire, and the broader backlash against Disney’s remakes. Fans on X interpreted Gadot’s response as a subtle rebuke of Zegler, with one user posting, “Gal Gadot finally said what we’re all thinking. Rachel Zegler tanked this movie.”

Zegler’s Alleged “Meltdown”

Following Gadot’s reported remarks, Zegler’s public response has been described by some as a “total meltdown.” While no direct evidence confirms a dramatic outburst, posts on X and media coverage suggest that Zegler reacted emotionally on social media, possibly addressing the criticism from Gadot, fans, and industry figures. Her history of engaging with critics online—such as responding to racist harassment during filming or defending her political posts—may have amplified perceptions of a meltdown. For instance, Zegler previously revealed to Cosmopolitan that she faced harassment, including people screaming profanities outside her apartment, which took a toll on her mental health.

Critics argue that Zegler’s outspokenness, while authentic, has made her a lightning rod for controversy, unlike a figure like Selena Gomez, who is perceived as more diplomatic. Gomez’s advocacy for mental health and immigration is seen as less divisive, leading fans to speculate that she could have navigated the Snow White role without alienating audiences. However, supporters of Zegler, including Halle Bailey and LatinaMedia.Co, argue that she has been unfairly targeted. They point out that Zegler had no control over creative decisions or marketing, and her casting was a step toward representation in Disney films.

The Case for Selena Gomez

The recurring mention of Selena Gomez as a potential Snow White underscores her appeal as a Disney veteran with a global fanbase. Her likability, honed through years in the public eye, contrasts with Zegler’s more confrontational style. Fans on X have praised Gomez’s potential to honor the original Snow White while bringing a fresh, relatable energy to the role. However, casting Gomez would not have guaranteed success, as she too could have faced scrutiny over the character’s traditional appearance or the remake’s creative direction.

A Complex Controversy

The Snow White saga reflects broader tensions in Hollywood: the challenge of reimagining classics for modern audiences, the impact of social media on public perception, and the scrutiny faced by young actresses of color. While Gadot’s reported comments and Zegler’s alleged meltdown have intensified the drama, blaming Zegler alone ignores systemic issues, such as Disney’s handling of the remake’s production and marketing. The film’s failure cannot be pinned solely on one actress, no matter how controversial her statements.

As the dust settles, the calls for Selena Gomez highlight a desire for a less divisive figure to embody Snow White’s legacy. Yet, Zegler’s talent and trailblazing role as a Latina Disney princess remain undeniable. The controversy serves as a reminder of the high stakes involved in remaking a cultural touchstone—and the intense pressure faced by those at the center of the spotlight.