Actress Gal Gadot, known for her roles in “Wonder Woman” and the upcoming live-action “Snow White,” is opting to keep her political opinions private, citing a desire to focus on her artistic endeavors and the heightened sensitivities following the Oct. 7, 2023, terrorist attack on Israel.
In a recent interview with Variety, Gadot, 39, who is Israeli, explained her decision. “Because who cares about the celebrity talking about politics?” she said. “I’m an artist. I want to entertain people. I want to bring hope and be a beacon of light whenever I say anything about the world.”
Gadot’s comments come amid swirling speculation about tensions surrounding Disney’s “Snow White” remake, where she portrays the Evil Queen alongside Rachel Zegler, who plays the titular princess. Reports have surfaced suggesting a potential rift between the two actresses, fueled by differing political viewpoints and a significant age gap.
A source told People magazine that Zegler, 23, and Gadot “have nothing in common,” further noting the disparity between Zegler, a young actress, and Gadot, a mother of four. “On top of that, their political views differ, adding to the tension,” the source added. Representatives for both actresses did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Despite these reports, Gadot and Zegler have made joint appearances to promote “Snow White,” including at Disney’s D23 Expo in 2022 and the recent Academy Awards, where they presented the Best Visual Effects category together.
Gadot’s absence from the film’s European premiere in Spain on March 12 sparked further speculation. However, a source familiar with the situation clarified to People that Gadot was “never supposed to be in Spain” and was instead conducting press interviews in New York City. “This isn’t like a ‘stay away from me’ situation,” the source said, emphasizing their joint appearance at the Oscars and planned appearances together later. Gadot did attend the Los Angeles premiere of “Snow White” on March 15.
Another source pointed to the “huge age gap” and “different political views” as factors contributing to the perceived tension. Gadot, who served in the Israel Defense Forces, has publicly advocated for the release of Israeli hostages following the Oct. 7 attacks. Zegler, on the other hand, has voiced support for Palestinians amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
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In her interview with Variety, Gadot addressed her personal connection to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, stating, “I’m a grandchild of a Holocaust survivor who came to Israel and established his family from scratch after his entire family was erased in Auschwitz. And on the other side of my family, I’m eighth generation Israeli. I’m an indigenous person of Israel.”
Regarding her advocacy for the Israeli hostages, Gadot said, “I am all about humanity, and I felt like I had to advocate for the hostages. I know what I’m advocating for, and I know what I wish for the world. I am praying for better days for all. I want everybody to have good life and prosperity, and the ability to raise their children in a safe environment.”
Gadot’s decision to step back from political discourse reflects a broader trend among celebrities navigating highly charged political climates. Her focus on her role as an entertainer and her desire to “bring hope” underscores her commitment to her craft amidst the ongoing controversies surrounding “Snow White.”
The “Snow White” remake, which has faced delays and generated significant online discussion, is scheduled for release in 2025.
