Rachel Zegler Says She Had to Prove She Was Latina to Hollywood Before Landing ‘West Side Story’

Rachel Zegler knows what it means to defend her identity. Long before stepping into the role of Disney’s Snow White, she had to convince Hollywood that she was Latina enough to play María in Steven Spielberg’s “West Side Story.” Studio executives questioned her heritage, unable to reconcile her Colombian roots with a last name that did not “sound” Latina to them. 

Zegler recalled the experience in an interview with Allure, describing how white executives repeatedly called to confirm her background. “They kept calling to ask if I was legit,” she said. “I remember thinking, ‘Do you want me to bring my abuelita in?’ I will. I’ll bring her into the studio if you want to meet her.” The ordeal was a cruel example of how the industry still places Latinos under scrutiny. 

Spielberg’s Push and the Road to Snow White

For Spielberg, there was no doubt. He wanted a Latina actress for the role of María, and Zegler’s talent won him over. Her performance in West Side Story earned her a Golden Globe and set her career in motion. But when Disney came calling for Snow White, there was another layer of scrutiny. This time, it wasn’t about whether she was Latina enough — it was about whether a Latina actress should play a traditionally white character. 

Zegler knew the conversations around representation would continue. “The reality is, I was given a chance because I could sing,” she said. That was enough for Spielberg. It was enough for Disney. But for many people, it still wasn’t. 

Rachel Zegler Is Pushing for Change in Hollywood

The backlash surrounding Zegler’s Snow White casting was part of a broader cultural conversation about diversity in Hollywood. She understands that her presence in the role challenges long-held assumptions, and she sees it as an opportunity. “That’s why it’s so important for the next generation to see movies like Snow White,” she said. 

For Zegler, representation is about reshaping an industry that still questions who belongs. Her experience with West Side Story made that clear. But now, with Snow White hitting theaters on March 21, she hopes to prove something bigger. “Power takes many forms,” she said. And sometimes, power means standing firm in who you are — even when others demand proof.