Rachel Zegler’s recent remarks in support of Palestine, highlighted in her “free Palestine” statement, have drawn both applause and criticism, reigniting debates over celebrity activism in 2024. The actress, known for her breakout role in “West Side Story,” posted the phrase “and always remember, free palestine” on X following the release of the Snow White trailer, stirring significant discussion about the intersection of politics and fame.
Support and Backlash Over Zegler’s Public Stance
Following her post, Zegler faced polarized reactions. While many supporters lauded her courage, critics claimed her pro-Palestinian statement jeopardized her blossoming career. Nevertheless, the controversy did not stall her professional progress. In the wake of the initial reaction, Zegler remained unfazed, stating during an interview with i-D, “There are worse things.”
Despite warnings that such activism could be costly, Zegler’s career continued to thrive. At the time, she was rehearsing for a Broadway revival of Romeo + Juliet alongside Kit Connor, which went on to achieve both critical and commercial praise. Zegler then took on the lead role in a West End production of Evita, again earning widespread acclaim. These successes ran counter to claims that her public support for Palestine would harm her trajectory as a stage actress.
Morality and Responsibility Above Personal Gain
Zegler has openly prioritized her personal values over her career, emphasizing her sense of duty as a public figure. She explained in the i-D interview,
There are obviously things that are at stake by being outspoken, but nothing is worth innocent lives,
—Rachel Zegler, Actress. This sentiment underscored her willingness to use her influence for causes she deems important, regardless of professional risks.
Her accomplishments include winning a Golden Globe at age 20 for her portrayal of Maria in Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of West Side Story. She quickly became part of major franchises such as the DCEU and the Hunger Games series. Yet, as Zegler’s profile grew, so did the scrutiny. Especially after her casting in Snow White, critics — often from the political right — intensified their focus, igniting a culture war around her public statements and personal identity. Online debates were further fueled by contrasting positions, with Zegler supporting Palestine and her co-star Gal Gadot advocating for Israel. Some, including Jonah Platt, singled out Zegler, blaming her pro-Palestinian tweet for the film’s underperformance at the box office.
Facing Identity-Based Attacks and Cultural Debates
Zegler, who has Colombian and Polish heritage, regularly confronts racially charged criticism and online hostility after being cast as Disney’s Snow White. Her experiences parallel those of other Disney stars from diverse backgrounds — including women, people of color, and LGBTQ community members — who often become targets during heated online discourse about inclusion and representation.
Through these turbulent times, Zegler has publicly reflected on the emotional weight of such scrutiny. She recalled in her i-D interview a session with her therapist who told her,
What you’re going through isn’t normal.
—Zegler’s Therapist. Nonetheless, she continues to approach her role as an actress and activist with resilience, refusing to be silenced by online harassment or attacks related to her support for the Palestinian community.
Staying Resilient Despite Challenges
Rachel Zegler addressed the accumulation of criticism by stating,
I think a victim mindset is a choice,
—Rachel Zegler, Actress. Her response reflects a commitment to personal agency amid widespread controversy and challenges within the entertainment industry and social media landscape. Zegler remains determined to use her platform responsibly and stands by her decision to speak out on humanitarian issues.
As her career continues on both Broadway and the West End, Rachel Zegler’s free Palestine statement and her reaction to criticism highlight her resolve to prioritize ethical responsibility over personal advancement. Her story exemplifies the pressures faced by public figures who engage with political causes and the lasting impact such statements can have on their careers and public perception.
