Gal Gadot is clarifying recent remarks she made regarding the disappointing box office performance of Snow White. The actress, who starred opposite Rachel Zegler in Disney’s live-action remake, explained that her earlier comments about pressure to “speak against Israel” were personal in nature and not meant to suggest that politics alone sank the film.
The movie grossed just $87 million domestically, far below Disney’s expectations. Much of the discourse around the film centered on the opposing political views of its stars. Gadot, who previously served in the Israel Defense Forces and has publicly supported Israel, has often clashed ideologically with her co-star Rachel Zegler, who has been vocal in her support for Palestinians and the “Free Palestine” movement.
These contrasting stances became a lightning rod in media coverage, with many believing the tension played a role in the film’s underperformance.
During an interview with Israeli program The A Talks, Gadot shared her thoughts:
“You know, this happens a lot in various industries, including Hollywood,” she said. “There’s pressure on celebrities to speak against Israel. And, you know, it happened.”
She added, “I can always explain and try to give context about what’s happening here. And I always do that. But in the end, people make their own decisions. And I was disappointed that the movie was incredibly affected by all of that and that it didn’t do well at the box office. But that’s how it goes. You win some, you lose some.”
After the clip went viral, Gadot clarified her comments on Instagram, posting a story on August 17 that has since been deleted. “I was honored to join an extraordinary interview with inspiring interviewers, whose questions go straight to the heart,” she wrote. “Sometimes we respond to questions from an emotional place. When the film came out, I felt that those who are against Israel criticized me in a very personal, almost visceral way. They saw me first and foremost as an Israeli, not as an actress. That’s the perspective I spoke from when I answered the question.”
She continued, “Of course, the film didn’t fail solely because of external pressures. There are many factors that determine why a film succeeds or fails, and success is never guaranteed.”
Other controversies surrounding Snow White included Rachel Zegler’s vocal criticism of Donald Trump supporters, her disparaging remarks about the 1937 animated classic, and the hateful comments she received online regarding her Colombian heritage.
