Rachel Zegler, the star of Disney’s upcoming live-action Snow White, has responded to the controversy surrounding the film, attributing the backlash to audiences’ deep love for the 1937 animated classic.

Speaking to Vogue Mexico, Zegler acknowledged the strong reactions the remake has generated, saying, “I interpret people’s sentiments towards this film as passion. What an honour to be a part of something that people feel so passionately about. We’re not always going to agree with everyone who surrounds us, and all we can do is our best.” (Translated from Spanish to English by Variety).

Disney’s live-action remakes have been met with mixed reactions in recent years, but Snow White has faced particular scrutiny, with some criticism stemming from Zegler’s Colombian heritage. The backlash intensified after she referred to the 1937 film as “dated” and criticised its portrayal of the prince, saying he “literally stalks” Snow White. Now, Zegler sees the controversy as an expression of audiences’ attachment to a beloved classic.

She further reflected on the broader conversation about representation in Hollywood, adding, “I understand that the conversation comes from the community not wanting to be seen as a monolith, but the reality of being Latino and working in this industry is that we try to represent the entire diaspora. I know where I’ve been; I represent it in my narrative, and I carry it in my heart every day. No one can ever tell me that it’s not a part of me.”

Despite the ongoing debate, Zegler remains focused on bringing Disney’s reimagined Snow White to the big screen, embracing both the excitement and the challenges that come with the role.