**Rachel Zegler Addresses Backlash Over Comments on "Snow White" Reboot**

Rachel Zegler, the star of Disney's upcoming live-action "Snow White" reboot, has responded to criticism she received regarding her remarks about the original animated film's portrayal of romance. Zegler, in an interview with Variety, clarified her previous statements, asserting that her words were taken out of context.

Footage from a 2022 interview at Disney's D23 Expo showcased Zegler describing the 1937 classic as outdated in its depiction of the relationship between Snow White and the prince. She remarked, "It's no longer 1937," suggesting that her version of Snow White would not depend solely on being saved by a prince but would instead focus on becoming a formidable leader. These comments, including her observation that the prince "literally stalks" Snow White, sparked considerable backlash from fans of the original movie who accused her of imposing modern gender norms on a beloved classic.

In her recent conversation with Variety, Zegler expressed disappointment over the backlash, citing that her original intent was to highlight that women can pursue multiple goals simultaneously. "It made me sad that it was taken in such a way, because I believe that women can do anything. But I also believe that they can do everything," she shared. She emphasized that her comments about the classic character were meant to illustrate that Snow White's aspirations in the new adaptation extend beyond just finding true love.

Zegler also denied that Disney was removing the romantic storyline from the reboot, stating that the love story remains integral to the film. "A lot of people wrote that we weren't doing [that storyline] anymore - we were always doing that; it just wasn't what we were talking about on that day," she explained.

Reflecting on the broader context of her remarks, Zegler suggested that the backlash was part of a larger pattern of tearing down outspoken women in the public eye. "I've watched women get torn down my whole life, my whole career," she noted, expressing frustration that such attacks seem to be a recurring issue.

The controversy surrounding Zegler's statements on "Snow White" is not the first time the actress has faced public ire. She also stirred debate with an anti-Israel post shared on X in August, contributing to the ongoing scrutiny of her public persona.

As the "Snow White" reboot approaches its 2025 release date, Zegler remains at the forefront of discussions about the adaptation and its reception by audiences worldwide.