Steven Spielberg’s Key Role in Disney’s New Snow White Film Revealed!

Disney has finally unveiled its new live-action adaptation of “Snow White,” breathing new life into one of its classic tales. Nearly 90 years after the release of their first animated film, director Marc Webb reimagines the story for a new audience while preserving the spirit of the original narrative.

Gal Gadot, formerly known as Wonder Woman, plays the Queen who turns into a witch, while Rachel Zegler stars as the iconic Snow White. In an interview on Jimmy Kimmel’s show, Zegler, who first came to prominence in Steven Spielberg’s “West Side Story,” shared that she landed the audition thanks to the legendary director.

“West Side Story was still in production. We were about six months away from its release, and no footage had been shown yet,” the actress recalled. “Steven Spielberg gave a glowing recommendation about me to Marc Webb, who is directing the film. Thanks to Steven, I found out I got the part before it was confirmed. I wished him a happy Father’s Day via text, and he responded with apple emojis.”

A Modern Heroine

In the film, Rachel Zegler acts, sings, and dances. This new version includes the iconic songs from the 1937 animated movie but also features several original musical numbers, including the catchy “Waiting on a Wish” (Just a Wish Away)—penned by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the composing duo behind “La La Land” directed by Damien Chazelle.

What does Snow White look like in 2025? This version stays true to the key moments of the animated film—house cleaning, the prince’s kiss, the poisoned apple, and many more—but refreshes the outdated trope of the helpless princess. Rachel Zegler brings to life a modern heroine, rooted in her time, poised to inspire countless young viewers in the years to come.

Experience Marc Webb’s “Snow White” in theaters