Disney’s Snow White premiere plans scaled down amid controversy and backlash?

Disney’s upcoming Snow White remake has reportedly sparked controversy since its announcement, and now, the backlash appears to be affecting the film’s rollout.

According to Yahoo, the studio’s typically grand Hollywood premiere, set for today, is being significantly scaled back. Unlike Disney’s usual star-studded affairs, media access will be restricted, with only photographers and an in-house crew allowed to cover the event.

Disney has not commented on why it is limiting press coverage, but the decision comes as the Marc Webb-directed film, slated for theatrical release on March 21, continues to draw criticism over its casting, modernised storyline, and representation.

From the outset, Snow White faced backlash over the casting of Rachel Zegler in the iconic princess role. Some Disney purists objected to a Latina actress playing the traditionally fair-skinned character, sparking heated online debates about "woke" casting.

Zegler’s own comments about the 1937 animated film further fueled criticism. Calling the original movie “dated,” she pointed out that Snow White’s romance with the prince felt problematic, saying he "literally stalks her".

Zegler also championed the film’s new direction, telling Variety in 2022, “She’s not going to be saved by the prince. She’s dreaming about becoming the leader she knows she can be.” While supporters praised the progressive approach, detractors accused Disney of erasing the classic fairy tale's essence.

Adding to the controversy, actor Peter Dinklage slammed the film for its portrayal of little people, stating in a 2024 interview on the WTF With Marc Maron podcast, “They were very proud to cast a Latina actress as Snow White, but you’re still telling the story of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.’ Take a step back and look at what you’re doing there.”

In response, Disney promised a "different approach" to the seven characters, consulting with the dwarfism community to avoid outdated stereotypes.

Beyond the film’s creative choices, political tensions have further complicated its reception. Rachel Zegler, outspoken on social media, has vocally supported Free Palestine, while her co-star Gal Gadot, who plays the Evil Queen, is a staunch supporter of Israel. Their opposing stances have made the film a flashpoint in online culture wars, with calls for boycotts from both sides.

The Snow White controversy is part of a larger trend in Hollywood, where political and social issues are increasingly impacting film receptions.