Disney’s Snow White Premiere: A Star-Studded Event with Unique Challenges
The premiere of Disney’s highly anticipated *Snow White* took place in Los Angeles this past Saturday, showcasing the grandiose elements expected from a major Disney production. The event was vibrant, filled with delightful food options, themed candy, and engaging activity stations tailored for the iconic character. Notable figures like CEO Bob Iger and the head of live-action films, David Greenbaum, were present, adding to the significance of the occasion.
A Red Carpet with a Difference
Interestingly absent from the event was a substantial presence of press. This deliberate choice by Disney stemmed from the ongoing discussions surrounding the film’s lead actresses, Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot. Despite the press void, both stars maintained a positive demeanor, mingling and taking photographs together on the red carpet outside the historic El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood. Zegler, who portrays Snow White, and Gadot, who embodies the Evil Queen, were also featured in on-camera interviews conducted by Disney’s in-house media team.
On the red carpet, an excited Zegler embraced young actress Emilia Faucher, who plays a younger version of Snow White, affectionately calling her “my girl, that’s my baby.”
Positive Vibes and Enthusiastic Reactions
Amidst the festive atmosphere, *The Hollywood Reporter* caught up with actor Andy Grotelueschen, the voice behind Sleepy. He expressed his excitement about the premiere, stating, “The energy here is amazing. There are so many kids participating, and we even have animals like deer and rabbits!” Grotelueschen acknowledged the controversies surrounding the film but emphasized, “In this day and age, I don’t think you can please everybody. But I do know this movie was made with love and reverence.”
Inside the Theater: A Warm Welcome
As the audience settled in, there were no formal introductions prior to the film screening, a common practice during premieres at the El Capitan Theatre. When Gadot’s character made her debut on screen, the crowd erupted in applause, reflecting the anticipation surrounding her performance. Zegler also received enthusiastic cheers, particularly for her rendition of “Waiting on a Wish,” the first single from the *Snow White* soundtrack.
Navigating Controversies: The Legacy of Snow White
In light of the backlash the film has faced over the years, particularly regarding the casting of Zegler, who is of Colombian descent in the role of the traditionally white character, Disney took extra precautions for this premiere. Zegler has openly criticized the original film, describing it as “extremely dated”in its portrayal of women’s roles. She has referred to the prince’s actions as “literally stalking” Snow White, noting, “People are making jokes about ours being the PC Snow White, and it is—because it needed that.” Additionally, following Donald Trump’s election, her past comments on social media stirred further controversy, for which she later apologized.
Gadot has also been at the center of public debates due to her outspoken support for Israel, especially following the tragic events of October 7, when Hamas carried out a terror attack.
International Promotions and Future Releases
Leading up to the Los Angeles premiere, Disney adopted a similarly subdued approach in international markets, opting against a traditional premiere in the U.K. Instead, Zegler performed “Waiting on a Wish” at a European event held at the stunning Alcázar of Segovia Castle in Spain, accompanied by director Marc Webb. Meanwhile, Gadot participated in a promotional tour in New York, making appearances on programs like *Good Morning America*, *Live with Kelly & Mark*, and *The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon*.
Fans can mark their calendars as *Snow White* is set to hit theaters on March 21.