Here’s something nobody had on their 2025 bingo card: Rachel Zegler, fresh off one of Disney’s most controversial films in recent memory, is now rumored to be entering the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Yes, the very same Rachel Zegler who led the live-action Snow White (2025), a film that turned into a lightning rod for criticism, online feuds, and even political debate.
It’s no exaggeration to say that Snow White became a cultural firestorm. From her casting to her press tour comments to her political social media posts, Zegler was at the center of a media frenzy. She called out the original 1937 film for outdated messaging and described the prince as stalker-like. Then, her social media erupted with posts supporting Palestine, including one during the teaser trailer rollout, as well as a previously made remark wishing ill will toward Trump supporters.
Co-star Gal Gadot faced similar heat—though for the opposite reason. A longtime supporter of Israel, Gadot also received death threats, as did Zegler. Disney reportedly had to pay for extra security.
Despite strong early buzz, the film landed with a thud: poor reviews, a “rotten” Rotten Tomatoes score, and a global box office haul that underwhelmed.
And yet, here comes the next plot twist.
According to one reliable industry scooper, Marvel Studios is considering both Zegler and Gadot for major roles in the expanding Marvel Universe. No official announcement has been made, but fans online have begun throwing out possible characters—from X-Men newcomers to lesser-known heroes like Firestar.
Zegler is no stranger to the world of capes and powers. She had a supporting role in Shazam! Fury of the Gods (2023), which flew mostly under the radar but gave her some genre experience. Joining the MCU, however, would be a massive leap in visibility.
And it’s a risky one.
Marvel has had its share of controversial castings before, but adding someone who’s still tangled in a swirl of backlash would be a bold move—especially for a studio under the Disney umbrella. The MCU has been searching for its next generation of stars, and Zegler might fit the mold, or she could further divide an already fractured fanbase.
So, will Marvel take the leap? Or will this rumor fade like so many others? One thing is certain: if Zegler joins the MCU, the internet will have a lot to say—again.
Love her or hate her, Rachel Zegler is staying in the spotlight.
