Gal Gadot and Rachel Zegler, co-stars of Disney’s live-action remake of Snow White, made a joint appearance at the film’s premiere held at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, California, on Saturday. Despite reports of tension between them, the two actresses posed together for photos, embracing each other warmly as they stood alongside other cast members. The event marked a scaled-back premiere, reflecting the challenges and controversies surrounding the film’s production and release. While the mood on the red carpet appeared cheerful, rumors of their personal differences have garnered significant attention, adding another layer of intrigue to the highly anticipated movie.
Rachel Zegler, who plays the titular character of Snow White, stole the spotlight with her elegant ensemble. She wore a light pink strapless gown featuring a corseted bodice adorned with delicate butterfly appliqués and a floor-length skirt. Her hair was styled in a sleek updo, complemented by a diamond necklace and matching earrings. Zegler’s makeup was subtle yet striking, with mascara, smoky eyeshadow, a warm blush, and a glossy nude lip. Her overall look was both youthful and regal, capturing the essence of her character while exuding modern glamour. Meanwhile, Gal Gadot, who portrays the Evil Queen, opted for a contrasting yet equally stunning outfit. She wore a sheer black lace dress with a ruffled miniskirt layered over a longer, floor-length skirt. Her hair was left down in a sleek, middle-part style, and she accessorized with a jeweled statement necklace complete with a tassel. Both actresses flashed bright smiles as they walked the carpet, embodying the grace and poise expected of them as leading ladies of the film.
Despite their polished appearances, reports have emerged suggesting that Zegler and Gadot are not on friendly terms. According to a source who spoke to People, the two have "nothing in common," with differences in age, lifestyle, and political views contributing to their strain. Gadot, a 39-year-old mother of four, is said to have little overlap with Zegler, who is 23 and has built a reputation as an outspoken advocate for social justice. Their "huge age gap" has reportedly made it difficult for them to connect, further complicated by their differing perspectives on global issues. Zegler has been a vocal supporter of Palestine amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, while Gadot, who was born in Israel and served in the Israeli army, has publicly defended her homeland following the October 2024 attacks. These contrasting stances have added to the tension surrounding the film, which has already faced criticism for its reimagined storyline and alleged "woke" approach.
Zegler has been particularly candid about her views on the original Snow White film, calling out its problematic elements. In a 2022 interview with Variety, she criticized the classic tale for its depiction of Snow White’s relationship with Prince Florian, describing it as a "love story with a guy who literally stalks her" and calling it "weird." She also admitted that she found the original version unsettling, revealing that she watched it only once before setting it aside. Zegler’s comments have sparked backlash, with some critics accusing the live-action remake and its star of being overly focused on modern sensitivities. Despite this, Zegler has remained steadfast in her vision for the character, emphasizing the importance of creating a more empowered and relevant Snow White for contemporary audiences.
Gadot, on the other hand, has reportedly been frustrated by the drama surrounding the film. A source close to the actress told People that she is "annoyed by the movie drama," suggesting that she wants the focus to remain on the film itself rather than the controversies swirling around it. Gadot’s stance reflects her commitment to the project and her belief in its ability to entertain and inspire viewers. However, the challenges faced by the production have been undeniable, from the casting decisions to the reimagined storyline and the cultural backlash that has ensued.
The premiere itself was significantly scaled back compared to typical Disney events, with limited press and only photographers and Disney-employed interviewers present. According to Variety, the event was understated, with no external media outlets allowed on the red carpet. This decision likely aimed to minimize potential distractions and keep the focus on the film and its cast. Despite the controversies, both Gadot and Zegler appeared determined to promote the movie and honor their roles in it. Their joint appearance served as a reminder of the professionalism and dedication that define their craft, even in the face of personal and professional challenges. As the live-action Snow White prepares to hit theaters, the drama surrounding its production will undoubtedly remain a topic of discussion, influencing how audiences perceive the film and its stars.
