Rachel Zegler Stands Firm on Pro-Palestine Support Despite Disney’s Attempted Intervention

Rachel Zegler, the lead actress in Disney’s upcoming live-action adaptation of Snow White, has sparked internal controversy within the company due to her vocal support for Palestine. Her latest statement, which reaffirmed her stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, was posted on social media just one day after the first teaser for Snow White was released.

According to Variety, the timing of her post caught many within Disney off guard, as the company had been strategically rolling out marketing efforts for the film. Some executives viewed her statement as a potential risk to the film’s global reception, particularly given the ongoing geopolitical sensitivities surrounding the Israel- Palestine conflict.

Disney Executives Respond to Zegler’s Statement

In response to the post, an executive from Disney reportedly reached out to Zegler’s representatives to express concerns about the potential impact on the film and the company’s brand image. The studio feared that her statement could alienate audiences in key international markets.

Taking further action, Snow White producer Marc Platt personally traveled to New York to meet with Zegler and discuss the situation. Sources suggest that Platt aimed to address the potential repercussions of her statement and explore ways to mitigate any negative impact on the film’s promotional campaign.

Despite these interventions, Zegler stood firm in her position. She refused to delete or modify her post, signaling her commitment to her beliefs regardless of potential professional consequences.

A History of Political Advocacy

Zegler’s advocacy for Palestine is not new. She has been outspoken on the issue since at least 2021, using her platform to highlight human rights concerns in the region. In 2023, she joined Artists4Ceasefire, a collective of entertainers who petitioned President Joe Biden to call for a ceasefire in Gaza.

By August 2024, her support for Palestine became more direct, as she shared a post stating, “And always remember, Free Palestine.” Her statements have been widely discussed among fans and industry observers, with some praising her activism while others argue that her position may be polarizing in Hollywood.

Tensions Between Zegler and Co-Star Gal Gadot

The controversy surrounding Zegler’s political stance is further complicated by her relationship with co-star Gal Gadot, who portrays the Evil Queen in Snow White. Gadot, an Israeli actress and former Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldier, has been a vocal supporter of Israel.

According to reports, the studio has been mindful of these contrasting political views while organizing promotional events for Snow White. In an effort to avoid potential conflicts, Disney allegedly scheduled separate promotional activities for the two actresses. Industry insiders indicate that this decision was made to ensure a smooth marketing campaign and prevent public disagreements that could overshadow the film’s release.

Disney’s Risk Management Strategy

Given the high-profile nature of Snow White and the significant financial investment behind the project, Disney has taken steps to manage potential risks associated with Zegler’s public statements.

Reports indicate that the company hired a social media strategist to oversee and advise on Zegler’s online presence. The goal was to prevent any statements that could alienate segments of the audience or create controversy that might impact box office performance. This move is consistent with Disney’s broader approach to maintaining a brand image that appeals to a wide demographic.

The decision to monitor Zegler’s social media activity follows similar actions taken by the company with other high-profile stars, particularly when their statements have the potential to impact Disney’s business interests.

Broader Challenges Facing Snow White

The Snow White live-action adaptation has faced a series of challenges beyond this latest controversy. From the outset, the film’s casting decisions have been met with debate, particularly regarding Zegler’s selection as the lead. Some critics have argued that her casting diverges from traditional portrayals of the character, leading to backlash from certain audiences.

Additionally, the depiction of the seven dwarfs in the film has drawn scrutiny. Actor Peter Dinklage previously criticized the project for perpetuating outdated stereotypes. In response, Disney reimagined the roles to feature a more diverse group of characters, a move that has also generated mixed reactions.

What’s Next for Disney and Zegler?

As Snow White moves closer to its release date, Disney faces the challenge of navigating an increasingly complex promotional landscape. The company must balance its commitment to inclusivity and free expression with the financial realities of a global blockbuster release.

For Zegler, the situation underscores the risks and responsibilities that come with being a high-profile celebrity in the digital age. While her political stance has earned her support from activists and fans, it has also placed her at odds with one of the most influential studios in Hollywood.

Whether this controversy will impact the success of Snow White remains to be seen. However, it highlights the growing intersection of entertainment, politics, and corporate strategy in today’s media landscape.