In a surprising turn of events, Disney CEO Bob Iger has publicly criticized Rachel Zegler, the star of the live-action Snow White remake, declaring that her performance and public statements have tarnished the legacy of one of Disney’s most iconic princesses. The remarks, reportedly made during a closed-door meeting with studio executives, have sent shockwaves through Hollywood and sparked heated debate among fans and industry insiders alike. The controversy surrounding Zegler’s portrayal and the film’s underwhelming performance has reignited discussions about Disney’s approach to reimagining its classic tales in the modern era.

The live-action Snow White, a $350 million production, was released in 2024 but fell far short of expectations, grossing only $87 million worldwide. The film faced challenges from the outset, including production delays and backlash over changes to the original 1937 animated classic. Zegler, who was cast as Snow White, became a lightning rod for criticism after expressing her desire to update the character to reflect contemporary values. In interviews, she described the original Snow White as outdated, emphasizing that her version would be more independent and less reliant on a prince’s rescue. While some praised her for bringing a fresh perspective, others accused her of disrespecting Disney’s heritage, a sentiment that appears to have resonated with Iger.

Iger’s comments, though not officially confirmed by Disney, were leaked by an anonymous source present at the meeting. According to the source, Iger expressed frustration not only with the film’s financial failure but also with Zegler’s public persona. He reportedly stated that her outspoken critiques of the original story alienated audiences who hold the classic Snow White dear. “She’s not worthy of carrying the mantle of Snow White,” Iger is said to have remarked, adding that her approach “ruined one of Disney’s most famous princesses.” The remarks have drawn sharp criticism from Zegler’s supporters, who argue that she was unfairly targeted for trying to modernize a character created nearly a century ago.

Zegler, for her part, has not remained silent. In a recent statement, she expressed regret if her comments offended fans, clarifying that her intention was to honor the character while making her relatable to new generations. “I’m deeply sorry if my words hurt anyone,” she said. “My passion for this project came from a place of love for Snow White and what she represents.” However, her apology has done little to quell the controversy, with social media platforms buzzing with divided opinions. Some fans defend Zegler, arguing that Disney’s decision to reimagine Snow White invited scrutiny, while others side with Iger, believing that the remake strayed too far from the original’s charm.

The fallout from Iger’s statement has broader implications for Disney, which has faced challenges with its recent slate of live-action remakes. While films like The Lion King and Aladdin found success, others, including Snow White, have struggled to replicate the magic of their animated predecessors. Industry analysts suggest that Disney’s push to modernize its classics risks alienating its core audience, who value nostalgia and tradition. The Snow White remake’s casting of diverse dwarfs and its shift in narrative focus were intended to appeal to a younger, more progressive demographic, but these changes sparked backlash from some quarters, contributing to the film’s poor performance.

Iger’s remarks also raise questions about his leadership style and Disney’s internal dynamics. Known for his strategic vision, Iger has guided Disney through transformative acquisitions and the launch of Disney+. However, his blunt criticism of Zegler has drawn accusations of scapegoating, with some arguing that the film’s failure reflects broader creative missteps at the studio. Disney has yet to issue an official statement addressing Iger’s comments, leaving room for speculation about the company’s next steps.

As the dust settles, the Snow White controversy underscores the delicate balance Disney must strike between innovation and tradition. For Zegler, the experience has been a harsh lesson in navigating the pressures of starring in a high-profile remake. For Iger and Disney, it’s a reminder that even the most beloved stories can become battlegrounds in the culture wars. Whether Snow White’s legacy can recover from this chapter remains to be seen, but for now, the spotlight remains firmly on the clash between a CEO’s vision and a young star’s ambition.