The promotional whirlwind surrounding Disney’s latest film “Snow White” was thrown into chaos after lead actress Rachel Zegler’s social media post ignited a firestorm that led to backlash against her, while also placing co-star Gal Gadot in the political crosshairs.
Key Takeaways
- Rachel Zegler’s pro-Palestine posts contrast Gal Gadot’s pro-Israel stance.
- Disney hired private security for Gadot following threats stemming from the controversial post.
- Zegler’s social media activity, including statements against Trump, troubled Disney executives.
- The controversial posts and subsequent controversies are thought to have impacted the film’s financial success.
- The film’s financial performance has been underwhelming, earning $87 million worldwide.
The Fallout of Zegler’s Social Media Post
Rachel Zegler’s addition of “free Palestine” in a social media post unwittingly sparked a broader conversation on the involvement of celebrities in political activism. Zegler’s comments attracted criticism and allegedly angered Disney executives who feared repercussions on the movie’s launch and her future career.
Zegler’s outspoken stance, coupled with past anti-Trump remarks, has cast a shadow over the film’s release. Disney acted swiftly, reinforcing security for co-star Gal Gadot after an influx of threats.
Escalating Security Concerns for Gal Gadot
The death threats have not only affected Gadot personally but also highlighted the often-unintended consequences of celebrity activism. Disney’s decision to hire private security underscores the gravitas of the threats made against Gadot, spotlighting the friction present between personal beliefs and public roles. This development underlines the complexity and risks when politics seep into the entertainment sphere.
Rachel Zegler’s social media activity, perceived as problematic for Disney, compelled movie executives to address the situation directly. An insider expressed concern, noting, “She didn’t understand the repercussions of her actions as far as what that meant for the film, for Gal, for anyone.” Disney enlisted social media specialists to monitor Zegler’s posts cautiously.
Outcome on Film Performance and Relations
The film, unfortunately, saw mixed reactions, earning a 42% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and generating an underwhelming $87 million at the box office against a budget of $270 million.
The circumstances surrounding Zegler and Gadot’s interactions, including Disney’s decision to schedule their press appearances separately, have fueled suggestions of a perceived feud. Zegler later issued an apology for her Trump-related comments, but the damage to the interpersonal dynamics appears to be long-lasting.
Sources
1. Woke Snow White star Rachel Zegler blamed for spike in DEATH THREATS towards co-star Gal Gadot
