March 15, 2025: As Disney’s live-action remake of Snow White gears up for its theatrical debut on March 21, reports have surfaced suggesting tension between its lead stars, Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot. Sources claim that the two actresses may not share a close bond off-screen, despite their collaborative efforts to promote the film.
Zegler, 23, who stars as Snow White, and Gadot, 39, who plays the Evil Queen, are said to have “nothing in common,” with insiders citing differences in their age, political views, and personal priorities. One source revealed to People magazine, “Gal is a mother of four, while Rachel is in a completely different stage of life. On top of that, their political views differ, adding to the tension.” Gadot, born in Israel, has been outspoken in her support for the release of Israeli hostages, while Zegler has used her platform to voice support for Palestine amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
This divide has reportedly contributed to a rumored strain in their relationship, although both actresses have continued to participate in the film’s promotional events. They appeared together at Disney’s D23 Expo in 2022 and recently presented at the Academy Awards. However, Gadot was absent from the film’s European premiere in Spain on March 12, with sources claiming she had prior commitments in New York.
Despite the tension, a source close to the situation insisted that the actresses’ relationship is not hostile. “This isn’t a ‘stay away from me’ situation. They were at the Oscars together and will be at the premiere this weekend,” the source said. Another insider added that while they were professional on set, the actresses did not develop a personal friendship. “Gal enjoyed filming, but she and Rachel are not friends. They did a job together, and that’s it,” they noted.
The film itself has faced its share of controversy, particularly regarding Zegler’s casting. After the announcement of her role in 2021, Zegler, who is of Latinx descent, faced racist backlash for playing the iconic character. Additionally, Zegler stirred debate when she referred to the original 1937 animated film as “dated” and suggested that the new version would present a more modern take on Snow White. This sparked disagreement between the actresses, with sources indicating that Gadot did not agree with Zegler’s public remarks. “Gal’s attitude is that you don’t criticize and cause drama for a project you signed on to do. She just doesn’t get it,” one insider revealed.
Directed by Marc Webb, Snow White also features original songs by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. The film will make its Los Angeles premiere on March 15 at the El Capitan Theatre, where both Zegler and Gadot are expected to attend. Despite the off-screen tension, the film is set to captivate audiences when it hits theaters on March 21.