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Disney’s live-action Snow White remake, starring Rachel Zegler, has sparked intense debate over whether the actress’s political activism and public criticism of the original film contributed to its box office failure. The movie earned just $43 million domestically in its opening weekend against a $270 million budget, with critics blaming Zegler’s “woke” commentary and social media posts for alienating audiences.
### Controversial Statements and Backlash
Zegler faced backlash for two key issues:
1. :
– She tweeted “Free Palestine” alongside the film’s trailer promotion in August 2024, which reportedly angered Disney executives and strained relations with Israeli co-star Gal Gadot, a vocal supporter of the IDF. Death threats against Gadot prompted Disney to hire extra security for her family.
– After Donald Trump’s 2024 re-election, Zegler posted, “FCriticism of the Original FilmPoor ReviewsRemake FatigueCasting Backlash: Zegler, a Latina, faced racist harassment for her ethnicity, while Peter Dinklage condemned the dwarves’ portrayal as regressive.
### Hollywood’s Double Standards
Conservatives noted Disney’s hypocrisy: The studio fired Gina Carano (The Mandalorian) for comparing political division to Nazi Germany but allowed Zegler’s anti-Trump and pro-Palestine posts. Disney’s tepid support left Zegler “to face the hatred alone,” according to Collider.
### Will Zegler’s Career Survive?
Despite the controversy, Zegler’s talent remains undeniable (West Side Story, Hunger Games). Some, like Meghan McCain, urged critics to “ease up,” noting she’s “23 and learning”. Others argue her outspokenness reflects Gen Z’s expectation that careers be “handed to them” without professional accountability. While Snow White’s failure may dent her blockbuster appeal, she’s set to star in Evita on London’s West End, suggesting her career isn’t doomed—yet.
In Hollywood, free speech often clashes with corporate interests. Zegler’s case highlights the risks of mixing activism with studio obligations, especially when millions of dollars—and reputations—are at stake.
