In recent weeks, Rachel Zegler, the 23-year-old actress who rose to fame with her breakout role in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story (2021), has been at the center of a media storm. The live-action remake of Disney’s Snow White (2025), in which she starred as the titular princess, has been mired in controversy, leading to a disappointing box office performance and intense public scrutiny. Amid this chaos, Zegler was recently spotted boarding a flight to Colombia, her mother’s homeland, sparking speculation about her next moves. Fans and critics alike are asking: Is Rachel Zegler turning her back on Hollywood, or is this simply a moment of respite before her next chapter?
The Snow White Controversy: A Perfect Storm
The live-action Snow White, directed by Marc Webb and featuring Zegler alongside Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, was one of Disney’s most anticipated releases of 2025. However, the $270 million production has been plagued by controversies since its announcement in 2022. The film grossed only $142.8 million worldwide, a far cry from recouping its massive budget, and has been labeled a commercial flop by industry analysts. Critics have pointed to a combination of factors, from creative decisions to Zegler’s public comments, as reasons for its failure.
One of the earliest controversies arose from Zegler’s casting. As an actress of Colombian and Polish descent, her role as Snow White—a character traditionally depicted as Caucasian—drew backlash from some conservative audiences. Critics argued that Disney’s push for diversity compromised the story’s authenticity, while supporters praised the inclusive casting as a step toward representation in Hollywood. Zegler herself addressed the criticism, emphasizing the importance of updating classic stories for modern audiences. However, the debate over her casting set the tone for the film’s polarized reception.
Zegler’s comments about the original 1937 animated Snow White further fueled the fire. In interviews, she described the classic film as “weird” and criticized its “sexist” romance-driven plot, particularly the prince’s role as a “stalker.” She highlighted that the remake would portray Snow White as a feminist leader focused on saving her kingdom rather than dreaming of true love. While these remarks resonated with some fans, they alienated others who cherished the original story, leading to accusations that Zegler was disrespecting Disney’s legacy.
The most polarizing controversy, however, stemmed from Zegler’s political activism. In August 2024, after the release of the Snow White trailer, Zegler posted on X, thanking fans for their support and adding, “and as always, free Palestine.” This statement, made amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, drew sharp criticism, particularly given her co-star Gal Gadot’s vocal pro-Israel stance and past service in the Israeli Defense Force. Reports of tension between the two actresses surfaced, with rumors of a feud exacerbated by their limited joint appearances during the film’s press tour. The political divide also led to boycotts from both pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian groups, further damaging the film’s prospects.
Additionally, the decision to use CGI for the seven dwarfs, rather than casting actors with dwarfism, sparked backlash from advocates like Peter Dinklage, who criticized Disney for perpetuating stereotypes. The combination of these issues—casting debates, Zegler’s outspokenness, and production choices—created a perfect storm that culminated in the film’s poor performance and a 1.6/10 IMDb score, prompting the site to issue a rare warning about review-bombing.
Zegler’s Trip to Colombia: Escape or Exploration?
Against this backdrop, Zegler’s recent sighting at an airport, reportedly en route to Colombia, has ignited speculation about her intentions. Photos circulating on social media show the actress dressed casually, carrying a small suitcase, and appearing subdued—a stark contrast to her typically vibrant public persona. While some outlets have framed the trip as a potential retreat from Hollywood’s pressures, others suggest it may be a personal journey tied to her heritage.
Zegler, born in New Jersey to a Colombian mother and Polish father, has often spoken about her cultural roots. In interviews, she has expressed pride in her Latin heritage and a desire to connect with her mother’s homeland. Colombia, with its vibrant film industry and growing international presence, could offer Zegler an opportunity to explore new creative avenues. The country has produced acclaimed films like Embrace of the Serpent (2015) and hosted major productions, making it a plausible destination for an actress seeking to diversify her portfolio. However, there is no concrete evidence that Zegler is pursuing projects in Colombia at this time.
Alternatively, the trip could simply be a personal break. The past year has been tumultuous for Zegler, who faced not only the Snow White backlash but also a Tony Award snub for her Broadway debut in Romeo + Juliet opposite Kit Connor. The relentless criticism, coupled with Disney’s reported attempts to distance itself from her during the Snow White press tour, may have taken a toll. In a cryptic X post, Zegler described the past year as “neither good nor bad,” hinting at emotional exhaustion. A visit to Colombia could be a chance to reconnect with family and find solace away from Hollywood’s spotlight.
Is Hollywood Over for Rachel Zegler?
The narrative that Zegler is abandoning Hollywood has been amplified by sensationalist headlines and posts on X, with some claiming she has been “canceled” by Disney for being a “brand risk.” These claims, however, appear exaggerated. Despite Snow White’s failure, Zegler has already lined up her next project: a comedy-drama titled She Gets It From Me, where she will star opposite Marisa Tomei as her onscreen daughter. Directed by Julia von Heinz, the film is set to begin global pre-sales at Cannes, signaling confidence in Zegler’s marketability.
Zegler’s career trajectory suggests resilience rather than retreat. Her debut in West Side Story earned her a Golden Globe, and her role in The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (2023) was a commercial success, grossing $349 million worldwide. She also starred in A24’s Y2K (2024) and voiced a princess in the animated Spellbound (2024), demonstrating her versatility across genres. Industry insiders note that, at 23, Zegler is still early in her career, and Snow White is likely a hiccup rather than a defining moment.
Moreover, Zegler has garnered support from prominent Hollywood figures, including Ariana Grande, Jameela Jamil, Helen Mirren, and Melissa Barrera, who defended her against what Barrera called a “targeted hit piece” by Variety. While some, like Snow White producer Marc Platt’s son Jonah, have criticized her for “narcissism” and dragging politics into promotion, others argue that Disney failed to adequately prepare Zegler for the intense scrutiny that comes with a high-profile role.
The Snow White debacle has also sparked broader discussions about Hollywood’s culture wars. Some commentators argue that Zegler has been unfairly scapegoated for the film’s failure, with her youth, outspokenness, and Latin heritage making her an easy target for conservative critics. Others contend that her comments, particularly on political issues, were ill-timed and poorly managed, alienating audiences and complicating Disney’s marketing efforts. The New Yorker described the situation as “stupid and sinister,” reflecting the toxic intersection of politics, fandom, and industry dynamics.
What’s Next for Zegler?
While Snow White has left a mark on Zegler’s public image, it’s premature to declare her Hollywood career over. Her invitation to the prestigious Met Gala on May 5, 2025, hosted by Anna Wintour, underscores her continued relevance in the entertainment world. The event, frequented by A-list stars like Kim Kardashian and Shakira, suggests that Zegler remains a sought-after figure despite recent setbacks.
Zegler’s talent is undeniable. Critics have praised her performance in Snow White, particularly her vocal abilities, which blend the delicate soprano of the 1937 princess with a modern, powerful flair. Her ability to embody complex characters, from Maria in West Side Story to the empowered Snow White, positions her as a versatile actress with long-term potential. The She Gets It From Me project, with its promising cast and director, could be the fresh start she needs to move past the Snow White controversy.
As for her trip to Colombia, it’s likely a personal journey rather than a professional exodus. Whether she’s seeking inspiration, family connection, or simply a break, Zegler’s youth and determination suggest she’s far from done with Hollywood. The industry is known for its comebacks, and Zegler’s track record indicates she has the talent and support to weather this storm.
Conclusion
Rachel Zegler’s journey to Colombia comes at a pivotal moment in her career. The Snow White controversy has tested her resilience, but it has also highlighted her ability to spark conversation and challenge norms. While some see her as a polarizing figure, others view her as a bold voice in a changing industry. Whether she’s exploring new opportunities or taking time to recharge, one thing is clear: Rachel Zegler’s story in Hollywood is far from over. Her next moves—both onscreen and off—will be closely watched as she navigates the complexities of fame, activism, and artistry.
