Rachel Zegler knows she can’t be everybody’s princess.
In fact, she accepts the criticism that has come since she was announced as the titular role in Disney’s upcoming live-action remake of the 1937 animated classic Snow White in 2021.
“I interpret people’s feelings about this film as passion for it and what an honor to be able to be a part of something that people are so passionate about,” the 23-year-old said in an interview with Vogue Mexico published Feb. 24. “We’re not always going to have the same feelings as everyone around us and all we can do is do our best.”
After the West Side Story star—who is of Colombian descent—was announced as the star of the film, she faced racist backlash from fans who believed her casting did not represent Snow White, similar to the same issue Halle Bailey faced when she was cast as Ariel in The Little Mermaid.
For Rachel, she was even more inspired to take on the role, after seeing the response Halle got from girls who looked like her, recalling how she had connected with Belle from Beauty and the Beast growing up because she was the princess the actress felt resembled her closest.
“She [Belle] had brown hair, and it was hard to find someone who looked like us in these kinds of movies,” Rachel explained. “Now I see what a beautiful experience it was for Black girls around the world to see Halle play Ariel in The Little Mermaid (2023).”
Still in addition to the backlash from those who believed she didn’t look the part, the Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes actress also faced criticism over comments she made in 2022 about the film’s plot and saying that the love story was focused on a prince who “stalked” Snow White. While the film will hold classic elements, Rachel assured viewers the modern touch has a greater message.
“It’s very important for audiences to know that Disney has found this beautiful and delicate balance between the animated classic that everyone knows and loves from 1937,” Rachel noted. “And at the same time, introduces it to this new generation.”
“Her superpower is her heart, there’s no supernatural power that Snow White possesses beyond her love for humanity, for all living creatures and her fundamental belief that there’s goodness in everything,” she added. “That’s something I really think the world could take advantage of more.”
