Latina Star Rachel Zegler to Portray Argentina’s First Lady in ‘Evita’ Ahead of ‘Snow White’ Premiere 

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Rachel Zegler is stepping into the role of Eva Perón, Argentina’s former First Lady and one of the most polarizing figures in Latin American history, for her West End debut. The revival of Evita, directed by Jamie Lloyd, is set to open at the London Palladium on July 1, with previews beginning June 14, according to Deadline. 

Rachel Zegler to Showcase Her Talent in ‘Evita’

Few roles in musical theater come with as much weight as Eva Perón. Her rise from a modest background to one of the most powerful women in Argentina has fascinated audiences for decades. Evita follows her transformation from a young actress to a political leader, chronicling her marriage to President Juan Perón and her influence over the country before her early death. The musical, originally written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, first premiered on the West End in 1978 before moving to Broadway the following year. Since then, it has been revived numerous times and was adapted into a 1996 film starring Madonna. 

Taking on a role this demanding is nothing new for Zegler. The Latina actress was still in high school when she was cast as Maria in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story, a role she won over thousands of other hopefuls. That performance launched her career, leading to starring roles in The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes and Disney’s upcoming Snow White, in which she plays the iconic princess opposite Gal Gadot’s Evil Queen. 

A Career Built on Big Roles

Stepping into Evita puts Zegler in the company of theater legends. Elaine Paige originated the role in London, while Patti LuPone made it famous on Broadway. Both delivered powerhouse performances that cemented Eva Perón’s place as one of musical theater’s most complex characters. The role demands intense vocal and emotional range, requiring an actress who can command the stage while portraying a woman whose legacy remains divisive. 

Zegler has already proven she can handle high expectations. Last year, she made her Broadway debut as Juliet in a modernized adaptation of Romeo + Juliet, showcasing her ability to lead a live production. Evita will test her in new ways, placing her front and center in one of the West End’s most anticipated revivals. 

With Snow White set for release in March 21st, Zegler continues to balance film and theater, building a career that spans both mediums.  

What are your thoughts on Zegler’s latest role? 

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