The debate over whether Selena Gomez should replace Rachel Zegler as Snow White in Disney’s live-action remake has stirred significant discussion, particularly on social media platforms like X. While the idea of Gomez taking over the role has been floated by some fans, the reasons behind this sentiment are rooted in a mix of public perception, controversies surrounding Zegler, and Gomez’s established popularity. Below is a detailed exploration of why some people have expressed a preference for Selena Gomez, based on available information and sentiment observed online.
1. Rachel Zegler’s Controversial Comments About the Original Snow White
Rachel Zegler, cast as Snow White in Disney’s 2025 live-action remake, faced backlash for remarks she made about the 1937 animated classic. In interviews, Zegler described the original film as “dated” and criticized its focus on a love story with a prince she labeled as a “stalker.” She emphasized that the remake would shift Snow White’s narrative to focus on leadership and self-discovery rather than romance, stating, “It’s no longer 1937, and we absolutely wrote a Snow White that’s not gonna be saved by the prince”. These comments were perceived by some Disney fans as disrespectful to the cherished original, sparking accusations that Zegler was dismissive of the film’s legacy. For example, a Variety article noted that her remarks were seen as “trashing the beloved original Snow White”.
In contrast, some fans on X have suggested that Selena Gomez would be a “better choice” because she is perceived as less likely to criticize the original film in such a way. One post from 2023 stated, “Selena is likable and probably wouldn’t have criticized Snow White like Rachel Zegler. She’s so insufferable”. This reflects a belief among some that Gomez would approach the role with a demeanor more aligned with preserving the nostalgic appeal of the Disney classic.
2. Public Perception of Selena Gomez’s Likability
Selena Gomez has a long-standing public image as a relatable and likable celebrity, built through her music career, acting roles (notably in Disney’s Wizards of Waverly Place), and her advocacy for mental health. Her approachable persona contrasts with Zegler’s more outspoken style, which has polarized audiences. Some fans argue that Gomez’s established fanbase and positive public image would make her a safer and more marketable choice for a high-profile Disney role like Snow White. The same X post highlighted Gomez’s likability as a reason she’d be preferable, suggesting that her involvement would attract audiences without the baggage of controversy.
3. Zegler’s Political and Social Media Activity
Zegler’s outspoken political views have fueled additional backlash, contributing to calls for her replacement. Notably, her August 2024 X post expressing solidarity with Palestine (“and always remember, free Palestine”) alongside Snow White promotional content drew significant attention. This prompted producer Marc Platt to discuss the ramifications with her, as reported by Variety. Additionally, Zegler’s critical comments about Donald Trump and his supporters following the 2024 U.S. presidential election, including Instagram posts stating, “May Trump supporters and Trump voters and Trump himself never know peace,” led to further controversy. These remarks alienated some conservative audiences, with figures like Megyn Kelly publicly demanding Disney replace Zegler, arguing that her political activism was incompatible with the role of Snow White.
Selena Gomez, while also vocal about social issues like mental health and immigration, is perceived by some as less polarizing in her public statements. Fans advocating for Gomez may believe her approach would avoid the political firestorms that have surrounded Zegler, making her a less divisive figure for a family-friendly Disney film.
4. Racial and Casting Controversies
Zegler’s casting as Snow White, a character traditionally described as having “skin as white as snow,” sparked racist backlash from some who argued that a Latina actress was unsuitable for the role. Zegler, who is of Colombian and Polish descent, faced harassment, including people showing up at her apartment and screaming profanities, as she revealed in a Cosmopolitan interview. While Disney reimagined Snow White’s name as stemming from a snowstorm survival story rather than her complexion, the controversy persisted.
Interestingly, Selena Gomez, also a Latina of Mexican descent, has been suggested as an alternative by some of the same critics who opposed Zegler’s casting. This paradox suggests that the preference for Gomez may not solely be about ethnicity but rather her established star power and perceived alignment with Disney’s brand. However, it’s worth noting that Gomez would likely face similar scrutiny regarding the “whiteness” of Snow White, indicating that the preference for her is more about familiarity and public image than a resolution to the racial debate.
5. Film’s Poor Box Office Performance and Scapegoating
Disney’s Snow White remake, released on March 21, 2025, underperformed at the box office, earning $43 million domestically and $87 million globally in its opening weekend against a reported $350 million budget. Some industry insiders and fans have pointed to Zegler as a contributing factor, citing her controversial statements and political activism as alienating audiences. For instance, 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 scapegoating has fueled speculation about alternative casting choices, with Gomez’s name emerging due to her proven draw as a celebrity.
However, critics like LatinaMedia.Co argue that blaming Zegler is unfair, as she did not control creative decisions or the film’s marketing strategy. They suggest that Disney’s decision to remake a controversial classic, combined with production issues like a writers’ strike and a set fire, contributed more to the flop than Zegler’s actions. Nevertheless, the narrative of Zegler as a liability has kept the idea of Gomez as a replacement alive in some circles.
6. Selena Gomez’s Disney Connection
Gomez’s history with Disney, particularly her breakout role in Wizards of Waverly Place, makes her a natural fit in the eyes of fans who associate her with the brand’s family-friendly image. Her experience in musical and acting roles, coupled with her global fanbase, positions her as a plausible candidate for a Disney princess. While there’s no evidence that Gomez was ever considered for Snow White, her established relationship with Disney fuels speculation that she could have been a less controversial choice.
Counterpoints and Context
Despite the calls for Gomez, there are strong arguments against replacing Zegler. Zegler’s casting was praised for its representation, with supporters like Halle Bailey (Disney’s Ariel) and fans on X defending her talent and right to the role. Her Golden Globe-winning performance in West Side Story and her vocal abilities demonstrate her suitability for Snow White, a role requiring both acting and singing prowess. Moreover, the idea of Gomez replacing Zegler remains speculative, with no official reports indicating Disney considered such a change. Previous rumors about Jenna Ortega replacing Zegler were debunked as hoaxes, suggesting that similar claims about Gomez may also lack substance
Additionally, Gomez’s own public struggles, including health issues and media scrutiny, could invite different controversies if she were cast. The preference for her seems to stem more from her current public favorability than a concrete assessment of her fit for the role.
Conclusion
The sentiment that Selena Gomez should replace Rachel Zegler as Snow White arises from a combination of Zegler’s controversial remarks about the original film, her polarizing political activism, the remake’s box office failure, and Gomez’s likability and Disney pedigree. Social media posts, like the one on X praising Gomez’s appeal, reflect a desire for a less contentious figure to embody the iconic princess. However, this narrative oversimplifies the challenges of the Snow White remake, which faced broader production and cultural issues. While Gomez’s star power is undeniable, Zegler’s casting brought a fresh perspective to the role, and the calls for her replacement often amplify unfair scapegoating amid complex debates about representation and legacy.
