Rachel Zegler is preparing for a new project with the BBC, as she takes on the role of narrator for a CBeebies Bedtime Story, following mixed reactions to her portrayal of the title character in Snow White. The West Side Story actress will read Never Mess with a Pirate Princess by Holly Ryan, with illustrations by Siân Roberts, to young audiences on March 28.
Zegler, known for her breakout roles, is excited about the message the story sends to children. In a statement about her upcoming reading, she said, “We can all be powerful princesses. You don’t need a king or a queen as parents, or a beautiful white horse, or even a fancy castle to live in. To be a powerful princess, you just need to be wonderful, brilliant you!” The empowering message is expected to resonate with young viewers, reinforcing themes of self-confidence and individuality.
However, this latest venture comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding her role in Snow White. The casting of Zegler, a Latina actress, as the iconic fairytale character has sparked backlash from some social media users who argue that her skin tone does not align with the traditional image of Snow White, famously described as having “skin as white as snow.” This criticism, largely from right-wing individuals, has ignited debates about race and representation in film.
The movie also faced criticism from actor Peter Dinklage, who called the project a “backwards movie” due to the use of CGI for the dwarfs, an issue raised by other actors with dwarfism. In response to this backlash, Disney has stated that they are consulting with members of the dwarfism community to ensure the portrayal of dwarfs avoids reinforcing harmful stereotypes seen in the original animated version.
Despite the ongoing controversy, Zegler’s new role in the CBeebies Bedtime Story project offers a refreshing opportunity for her to share an inspiring and inclusive message with young viewers. Her participation in this project highlights her continued commitment to promoting positive representation, both on and off the screen.
As the Snow White debate continues, Zegler’s ability to take on roles that empower and inspire, such as her upcoming reading, remains a testament to her versatility and strength as an actress. Fans are eager to see how she continues to navigate the challenges of Hollywood’s spotlight while advocating for diversity and representation in the entertainment industry.
