(Image source: Pinterest)
Rachel Zegler, the star of Disney's live-action "Snow White" who has been at the center of ongoing controversy, previously stated after the film's release that she would not back down from public backlash and would continue to be herself, speaking up against injustice. In a recent interview and photoshoot with "Glamour" magazine, Zegler not only reiterated similar sentiments but also accused the public of restricting artists' freedom of expression, a notion she finds deeply frustrating.

(Image source: Glamour)
Zegler shared, "Honestly, I'm a duck, and I've been a duck for a while now. We just have to get back to normal, not draw lines. I think there's this idea now that we, as public figures, aren't allowed to have thoughts or feelings, and in the eyes of most of the public, we're like paper dolls."
Zegler also explained why, after years of intense criticism from global netizens, she still has the resilience to remain in the entertainment industry: "It comes from my love for this job. I show up every day and do my work diligently, and no one can take that love away from me. I also made lifelong friends during the filming of 'Snow White,' and that kind of bond won't be broken by online comments."
(Image source: Pinterest)
Beyond "Snow White," Zegler also forged a friendship with Oscar winner Helen Mirren while filming "Shazam! Fury of the Gods." For this "Glamour" feature, Mirren was invited to converse with Zegler.
During their discussion, Mirren openly expressed her support for Zegler in confronting external criticism. Mirren commended Zegler for handling the "bullshit" with "grace," stating, "I think you've handled it beautifully."
Mirren then lamented that Zegler was "thrown into a very unfair abyss" and encouraged her, saying, "You were born to face and deal with things that people twice your age would find difficult to handle. These experiences are now integrated into your life, making you stronger and wiser." Zegler responded, "Every experience in my life so far has benefited me greatly. I thoroughly enjoyed being part of 'Snow White' and I love the film. I've watched it a few times, and it's still ranked number one on Disney+ for viewership, so I know it's an achievement worth celebrating."
via: Glamour