What It’s About
Amid the excitement for Disney’s upcoming “Snow White” remake, pro-Palestinian activists are calling for a boycott of the film due to the casting of Israeli actress Gal Gadot as the evil queen.
Why It Matters
This move highlights the ongoing attempts to politicize entertainment by targeting individuals based on their nationality and political views. It brings attention to the challenges faced by Israeli actors and artists, underscoring the broader implications on free speech and cultural expression.
The Controversy
Hashtags like #FreePalestine flooded social media shortly after Disney released the film’s teaser trailer on Monday. Critics have labeled Gadot as a “terrorist” due to her mandated service in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), a common and expected role for Israeli citizens.
Gal Gadot’s Advocacy
Gal Gadot, praised for her role in the “Wonder Woman” movies, has been a vocal supporter of her homeland, Israel. Following the October 7 Hamas terrorist attacks, she has continued her advocacy, drawing both criticism and support.
Rachel Zegler’s Stance
Rachel Zegler, who stars as Snow White alongside Gadot, has also made headlines by tagging her film promotion post with “#FreePalestine.” Despite her appreciation for fans, who contributed to over 120 million trailer views in 24 hours, Zegler’s political stance remains clear.
Global Attention
The debate has accentuated the polarized nature of international social media discourse over Israel-Palestine issues. While some users support Zegler, many stand by Gadot and her right to express her identity and beliefs.
A Broader Issue
Targeting celebrities for their Israeli roots or Jewish identity isn’t new. Earlier this year, Jewish-American reggae artist Matisyahu faced anti-Israel protests causing concert cancellations, despite not being Israeli. Gadot also criticized the international community for overlooking sexual violence committed by Hamas on October 7, keeping the focus on the atrocities inflicted upon Israelis.
Looking Forward
Disney’s “Snow White” is set to release in the U.S. on March 21, 2025. While some call for boycott, others are eagerly awaiting the film reflecting both the cultural contributions and the political conflicts tied to its cast members.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.