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In a recent interview, actress Rachel Zegler discussed the negative reactions she received after being cast as "Snow White" in Disney's live-action adaptation. Zegler explained that she encountered similar criticisms during her role in Steven Spielberg's "West Side Story," where some questioned her suitability for the roles due to her ethnic background.
Zegler told Harper’s Bazaar UK, "I heard that I wasn’t enough for something in 'West Side Story,' and at the same time, I was considered too much for something else in 'Snow White.'" She added that this experience was confusing in her early twenties.
She expressed pride in her Colombian roots, which are an integral part of her identity, and emphasized her refusal to compromise that for the comfort of others. Zegler noted that audiences tend to view people with multiple identities as not belonging to any, but she insists on staying true to herself.
Zegler’s casting as Snow White sparked widespread controversy, with some criticizing the perceived mismatch between her features and the classic animated character. She also faced backlash over her statements about the original character and her support for the Palestinian cause.
Regarding the harsh reactions she received, Zegler said, "If I had known all the threats to my safety that would come my way, I would have thrown my phone into the sea. I think any sane person would have done that."
