Ariana Grande ‘Reached Out’ To Rachel Zegler Amid Controversy

Rachel Zegler is opening up about the support she has received from fellow women in Hollywood as she prepares for the release of “Snow White.”

The 23-year-old actress has faced significant public scrutiny, especially regarding her casting in Disney’s upcoming live-action adaptation of the classic fairy tale.

However, amid the controversy, Zegler has found encouragement from industry peers, including singer and actress Ariana Grande.

In a recent interview for Allure‘s cover story, Zegler shared how Ariana Grande and other women reach out to uplift her during this challenging time.

One of Zegler’s most heartfelt acknowledgments was directed at Grande, whom she described as “deeply kind.”

The “Wicked” star unexpectedly reached out to Zegler, offering her unwavering support.

“She reached out to me—kind of apropos of nothing—and was like, ‘If you need anything, I am here,'” Zegler revealed. “She has gone through so much in the public eye, and I have always really, really admired her courage in the face of all of that.”

Beyond Grande, Zegler also received encouragement from several other prominent women in Hollywood.

She praised actress and activist Jameela Jamil, known for her outspoken stance on social justice and industry issues, referring to her “like a big sister.”

Additionally, Zegler expressed deep appreciation for her “Shazam! Fury of the Gods” co-stars Helen Mirren and Lucy Liu, referring to them as her “keepers” in Hollywood.

“I feel very held by them,” she said, acknowledging the sense of security they have provided during her journey in the industry.

Zegler’s casting as “Snow White” has sparked debate among some audiences, particularly due to her Latina heritage.

However, having strong female mentors has helped her navigate the backlash with resilience and grace.

In addition to recognizing her support system, Zegler challenged the long-standing narrative that women in the entertainment industry must compete with one another. Instead, she believes in fostering sisterhood and mutual success.

“All I’m ever really looking for in this business is a sister, and they’re not always easy to find,” she admitted. “We’re often told that other women have to be your competition, and I don’t subscribe to that.”

The actress advocated for championing peers, whether they are close friends or simply colleagues in the industry.

“I believe in championing your friends and championing your coworkers, whether you’re close with them or not,” she added.

For Zegler, true success comes from uplifting others rather than engaging in rivalry. She even offered a lighthearted piece of advice for handling competition: “So the second that there’s any intimidation or competition, just put on “Girl, So Confusing” by Charli XCX and talk it out.”

As Disney’s live action “Snow White” approaches its release, reports suggest tension between its two lead actresses, Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot.

While both have promoted the film together at major events like the Oscars and Disney’s D23 Expo.

However, they fueled rumors that they were not fond of each other as Zegler promoted the movie alone in Spain, while Gadot did so solo at Disneyland on March 16.

Hence, sources indicate that their relationship remains strictly professional. Their opposing political views are a significant factor contributing to this reported distance.

Gadot, an Israeli actress and former IDF soldier, has been vocal about her support for Israel, while Zegler has expressed solidarity with Palestine amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Their differing stances have fueled speculation about friction, with insiders noting they have little in common outside of work.

Beyond her dynamic with Gadot, Zegler has been at the center of controversy since her casting.

Facing racist backlash for being a Latina “Snow White,” she also stirred debate by calling the original 1937 film “dated” and emphasizing a modernized remake.

This has reportedly frustrated Gadot, who prefers avoiding public drama regarding projects she works on.

Meanwhile, Disney was reported to have struggled to manage Zegler’s outspoken nature.

Sources claim executives have urged her to tone down her social media activity, but she has resisted.

As “Snow White”‘s March 21 release nears, the off-screen drama continues to generate as much attention as the film itself.