(Image source: Just Jared)
Disney's live-action "Snow White" has been embroiled in controversy, largely due to star Rachel Zegler's past remarks criticizing the original animated film's plot. These comments sparked widespread backlash and ridicule online, leaving many to wonder about the reactions of other cast members, particularly Gal Gadot, who plays the Evil Queen, and how she views the ongoing saga.
Some even speculated about a private rift between Gadot and Zegler, citing not only Zegler's controversial statements but also their vastly different political stances. Gadot, an Israeli national, has consistently supported her government in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, while Zegler has publicly voiced strong support for Palestine, creating an undeniable tension between the two.
(Image source: The New York Sun)
Sources close to the production, speaking to People magazine, offered insights into their relationship. One insider admitted that Gadot and Zegler indeed had little interaction off-screen, largely due to their significant age difference. Another acknowledged that their divergent political views contributed to a strained dynamic. However, a different source clarified that while Gadot was reportedly annoyed by the ongoing turmoil surrounding the film, she got along well with Zegler during filming and enjoyed the overall production process. This source emphasized that their relationship was purely professional, not extending to friendship.
Yet another source conveyed Gadot's perspective, stating that she believed one should not criticize or cause trouble for a project they have signed on to, and she simply couldn't understand how the situation escalated.
(Image source: Just Jared)
Page Six published a similar report, quoting industry insiders with knowledge of the situation. One source revealed that "Disney's leading lady went rogue, and they don't know what to do with her... She's a very outspoken 20-something, and Disney executives personally called her and told her to tone down her social media posts. They even called her agency, but she just wouldn't listen. This was the case throughout the entire production, but her linking her political views to 'Snow White' is what truly angered people."
David Hale Hand, son of David Hand, who directed Disney's 1937 animated "Snow White," also weighed in, stating that "Snow White is a lovely young girl who deeply loves the Prince and the Seven Dwarfs, but she is not someone who would wave a Palestinian flag."
(Image source: The Today Show)
However, Zegler isn't the only one facing public scrutiny. Gadot herself has drawn criticism for her vocal support of her home country amidst the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with many labeling her a Zionist and accusing her of ignoring the casualties inflicted upon innocent Palestinians by Israel. Recently, Gadot delivered a speech at the Anti-Defamation League's annual summit, where she referenced the plight of hostages in Gaza to combat antisemitism, a speech that reignited a fresh wave of condemnation.
Not long ago, when Gadot and Zegler presented the award for Best Visual Effects at the Academy Awards, Gadot's attendance was nearly jeopardized. A collective of 21 Academy members and 75 film professionals had publicly petitioned the Academy to "reconsider" allowing Gadot to attend the ceremony.
(Image source: Just Jared)
The petition cited Gadot's repeated use of her social media platform to support Israeli military actions against Palestinians, actions that have been deemed war crimes and genocide by international courts. The petitioners argued that the Academy's decision to permit Gadot's attendance effectively disregarded the suffering of war victims. A Page Six source indicated that Gadot maintained her dignity throughout the controversy, offering no public response, but acknowledged that the situation was still hurtful.
Internal Academy sources clarified that the petition was not submitted before the ceremony, meaning there was insufficient time to address the request. Another industry source told Page Six that Gadot only became aware of the petition shortly before she was scheduled to present an award.