Disney’s upcoming live-action remake of Snow White has been mired in controversy since the announcement of Rachel Zegler as the iconic princess. Zegler, known for her breakout role in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story (2021), has faced significant backlash for her comments about the original 1937 animated film, where she criticized its outdated themes and suggested the new adaptation would focus on a more empowered Snow White. While some applaud Disney’s attempt to modernize the character, others feel Zegler’s approach dismisses the charm and innocence that defined Snow White in the classic fairy tale. A recent YouTube Short video, published on April 2, 2025, titled “Three actresses who would be a better fit for Snow White than Rachel Zegler #usa #celebrity,” has sparked further discussion by proposing three alternative actresses for the role: Anya Taylor-Joy, Florence Pugh, and Sadie Sink. These suggestions offer a fresh perspective on who might better embody the timeless princess, balancing tradition with a modern sensibility.

The controversy surrounding Zegler began shortly after her casting was announced in 2021. In interviews, she expressed her intention to portray a Snow White who isn’t solely defined by her romantic arc, emphasizing leadership and independence over the character’s classic traits of kindness and naivety. While her vision aligns with contemporary values, it has alienated fans who cherish the original story’s simplicity and warmth. Additionally, Zegler’s comments about the 1937 film, calling the prince a “stalker” and the plot outdated, were perceived by some as disrespectful to Disney’s legacy. This backlash has intensified with the release of the film’s trailer in March 2025, which showcases a more assertive Snow White but has been criticized for straying too far from the source material. Amid this debate, the YouTube Short video suggests that Anya Taylor-Joy, Florence Pugh, and Sadie Sink could better capture the essence of Snow White while still bringing a modern flair to the role.

Anya Taylor-Joy, the first actress proposed, is a compelling choice for Snow White due to her ethereal beauty and versatile acting chops. Known for her roles in The Queen’s Gambit (2020) and The Menu (2022), Taylor-Joy has a delicate yet commanding presence that could perfectly balance Snow White’s innocence with a quiet strength. Her porcelain complexion, wide expressive eyes, and blonde hair align with the traditional image of the character, often described as having “skin as white as snow, lips as red as blood, and hair as black as ebony.” However, Taylor-Joy’s ability to portray complex, layered characters suggests she could bring depth to Snow White without abandoning her core traits. For instance, in The Witch (2015), she played a young woman grappling with fear and resilience, a dynamic that could translate beautifully to Snow White’s journey of surviving the Evil Queen’s wrath while maintaining her compassion. Fans on social media have echoed this sentiment, with many noting that Taylor-Joy’s regal aura and emotional range make her a natural fit for a Disney princess.

The second suggestion, Florence Pugh, brings a different energy to the table. Pugh, celebrated for her performances in Midsommar (2019) and Little Women (2019), is known for her raw emotional intensity and ability to portray strong, grounded women. At 29, she might seem an unconventional choice for the youthful Snow White, but her versatility makes her a standout candidate. Pugh’s ability to convey vulnerability and resilience simultaneously could redefine Snow White as a character who is both gentle and fiercely protective of those she loves, such as the Seven Dwarfs. Her darker hair and fair complexion also align with the character’s classic description, though Pugh’s more mature demeanor might appeal to audiences seeking a slightly older, wiser Snow White. Moreover, Pugh’s vocal talent, showcased in her singing for Midsommar, suggests she could handle the musical elements of the role with ease, bringing a heartfelt authenticity to iconic songs like “Someday My Prince Will Come.” Fans have praised Pugh’s ability to command the screen, arguing that she could bring a grounded, relatable quality to Snow White that resonates with modern viewers while honoring the character’s roots.

The third actress, Sadie Sink, offers a youthful and vibrant take on Snow White. At 23, Sink is closer in age to the character’s traditional depiction as a young maiden. Best known for her role as Max in Stranger Things, Sink has proven her ability to portray characters who are both tender and tenacious. Her fiery red hair might require a transformation to match Snow White’s dark locks, but her fair skin and expressive features make her a visually fitting choice. Sink’s performance in The Whale (2022) demonstrated her emotional depth, which could bring a fresh layer of complexity to Snow White’s journey—from her fear of the Evil Queen to her bond with the Dwarfs. Additionally, Sink’s background in musical theater, including her Broadway role in Annie, equips her to handle the singing and dancing required for the part. Social media reactions to the YouTube Short have highlighted Sink’s ability to capture youthful optimism, with many fans noting that her energy could restore the whimsical charm that some feel Zegler’s portrayal lacks.

The debate over who should play Snow White reflects a broader tension in Hollywood: how to reimagine classic stories for a modern audience without losing their original magic. Zegler’s casting and the subsequent backlash underscore the challenge of balancing tradition with innovation. While her take on Snow White as a more empowered figure has its merits, it has left many fans longing for a portrayal that retains the character’s warmth and innocence—qualities they associate with the 1937 film. Anya Taylor-Joy, Florence Pugh, and Sadie Sink each offer a unique interpretation that could bridge this gap, blending the classic Snow White with a contemporary edge. Taylor-Joy’s ethereal grace, Pugh’s emotional depth, and Sink’s youthful vibrancy present compelling alternatives that might better satisfy audiences seeking a faithful yet fresh adaptation.

As Disney’s Snow White remake approaches its release, the conversation around casting continues to evolve. The YouTube Short video has ignited a wave of support for these three actresses, with fans taking to platforms like X to share their enthusiasm. Whether Disney will reconsider its casting choices remains to be seen, but the suggestions of Taylor-Joy, Pugh, and Sink have given fans hope for a Snow White who embodies both the magic of the past and the spirit of the present. For now, the debate serves as a reminder of the enduring power of fairy tales—and the passionate audiences who hold them dear.