The live-action remake of Disney’s “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” faced challenges during production before its weekend premiere. Since starting production in 2022, the film has been at the center of controversies, from delays to debates over character depictions.
Here are five major controversies that plagued the live-action “Snow White” before its release on Friday.
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“Snow White” star Rachel Zegler at the Hollywood premiere of the new film. (Rodin Eckenroth/Stringer)
Disney shaken over dwarfs’ depiction
More than three years before the film’s release, actor Peter Dinklage urged Disney to rework its portrayal of the classic “seven dwarfs” character.
“Game of Thrones” actor Peter Dinklage criticized the studio for attempting to depict magical dwarfs in the modern era.
Speaking on comedian Marc Maron’s podcast in 2022, Dinklage said, “You’re progressive in one way, but then you’re still making that f—–g backwards story about seven dwarfs living in a cave together. What the f— are you doing, man?”
Following Dinklage’s criticism, Disney announced a different approach to depicting the seven dwarfs to avoid reinforcing stereotypes from the original animated film.
Disney eventually used CGI dwarfs to portray Snow White’s seven friends in the final product.
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Disney characters (L-R) Doc, Happy Dwarf and Sleepy Dwarf can be seen at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. For the 2025 remake, the film generated controversy over how the dwarf characters would be portrayed.
Lead actress slams spirit of animated original
Lead actress Rachel Zegler faced backlash for her comments criticizing the themes of the classic 1937 version of “Snow White.”
During Disney’s D23 expo in 2022, Zegler expressed her thoughts on the original cartoon’s love story, implying it was outdated.
Zegler has defended her views and asserted her right to speak out fearlessly.
The 2025 film does not feature Snow White singing dreamily about true love, but rather focuses on her leadership qualities.
Film delayed for a full year
Following controversies over dwarf depiction and Zegler’s comments, Disney announced a one-year delay in the release of “Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs.”
Speculation arose that the delay was due to concerns over the film’s themes and depiction after online mockery.
Industry outlet “The Hollywood Reporter” provided an alternative theory, suggesting the delay was related to the SAG-AFTRA strike.
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“Snow White” reboot actress Rachel Zegler received backlash for criticizing the traditional romance themes of the original animated film. (Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)
Zegler speaks out on the Middle East, attacks Trump voters
In addition to her opinions on the original “Snow White,” Zegler sparked more controversy with her statements about the Middle East and Trump voters.
In a post promoting the official trailer for “Snow White,” Zegler shared her support for free Palestine.
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