Snow White star’s frustration with Disney premiere backlash.
A Snow White star has spoken out over Disney’s decision to scale back the film’s premiere due to ongoing controversies.
Backlash for Disney movie highlighted.
Variety first reported that Disney’s scaling-back decision stems from the growing controversies surrounding the film’s stars, including Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot, as well as the backlash over the film’s portrayal of the Seven Dwarfs.
The decision to create CGI dwarfs instead of using live actors, combined with sensitive political comments from the stars, has set off a firestorm of debate. It’s a tangled mess for Disney, one that’s impacted their promotional plans.
Many feel the company is too “politically correct” or “woke,” causing divides that affect even the most iconic films.
Among the issues surrounding the film: Zegler’s casting as Snow White, which has drawn criticism for casting a Latina actress in the role, and Gadot’s controversial comments about the Gaza conflict.
Zegler’s vocal support for Palestine and her criticism of Donald Trump have further stoked tensions, particularly among conservative groups who feel Disney has gone too far in its progressive stance.
The backlash has led to widespread criticism of the film’s approach to this classic element of the original.
Snow White actor’s statement confirmed.
“Snow White” actor Martin Klebba, who brings Grumpy to life in Disney’s live-action remake, says he’s “disappointed” by Disney’s decision to scale back the film’s premiere due to mounting controversies.
Despite his frustration, Klebba is clear: he’s not angry with Disney but with the “world” around him, sharing his concerns about how differing opinions are shaking up the entertainment world.
“I was a little disappointed,” Klebba told The Post. “I’m not disappointed in Disney. I’m disappointed in the world.” His disappointment, however, isn’t without understanding of the complexities at play.
Klebba elaborates, “People worked so hard on this movie, especially Marc Webb, the director, who has spent years bringing this project to life. Now, because a few people have differing views, we’re altering the fun part—the premiere.”
It’s a reality many in Hollywood are facing—where a single controversy can shift the entire trajectory of a project. Klebba can’t help but feel let down by the situation.
“So I’m a little bummed, but I understand it as well,” he adds. “Disney is one of the greatest production companies of all time, so you gotta be really careful in today’s world.”
What hurts the most? “I just was really hoping to get together and walk the red carpet with these guys,” Klebba confesses, referring to his fellow castmates.
Klebba’s history with Disney recalled.
Klebba is no stranger to the Mouse House, having appeared in both “Pirates of the Caribbean” and Eddie Murphy’s “The Haunted Mansion” in addition to his current role in “Snow White.”
The actor, who is open about his own challenges as someone with a disability, has seen Hollywood make strides in some areas but still feels there’s a lot of work to be done.
“I wish Hollywood would be a little more open-minded with people with disabilities,” he says. “Whether they’re in a wheelchair or they’re shorter, give everyone an opportunity.”
It’s not just about movie roles for Klebba; it’s about making the world a more inclusive place. “Just accept everybody for who they are,” he urges. “Then the world would be a great place.”
Klebba’s agent, Raphael Berko, echoed the actor’s frustrations, sharing how difficult it is for him to land roles. “It’s unbelievable the prejudice against him. It’s terribly frustrating,” Berko stated.
Klebba’s loyalty to Disney clarified.
Working on Disney films, especially this one, has been a surreal experience for Klebba. As a kid, he never imagined he’d be starring in some of the biggest franchises in the world.
“When I was eight years old and went to Disney World, I said, ‘I’m gonna work for this company one day.’ But I thought I’d be one of the characters with a big plastic head!” he laughed, recalling his early dream.
“Never did I think I was gonna become an actor and work on some of the biggest franchises of all time,” Klebba said, reflecting on how far he’s come in his career.
“I love Disney. They do what they gotta do,” Klebba adds. While disappointed by the situation, he remains loyal to the company that made his childhood dream a reality.
Through it all, Klebba remains upbeat about the movie itself, calling it “amazing.” He credits director Marc Webb for doing a great job, despite the external noise threatening to overshadow the project.
For Klebba, the battle to find roles that truly reflect his abilities remains a tough one. While Hollywood has made progress in some areas, he believes more can be done for actors with disabilities.
“Step outside the box and be open to casting someone for their abilities, not just for what they look like,” he urges, advocating for more diverse casting opportunities for people of all backgrounds and abilities.
With a smile, Klebba jokes, “Even though I’m better looking than Brad Pitt,” adding humor to the otherwise serious conversation about inclusivity and fairness in Hollywood.
His message to the world remains clear: acceptance is the key to a better society. If everyone could embrace each other’s differences, society would be far more harmonious.
Though the challenges are real, Klebba remains hopeful. “I think the world has come a long way,” he says, nodding to the progress made in terms of inclusivity and awareness of diverse perspectives.
A bittersweet premiere.
As Hollywood continues to adapt, Klebba recognizes the importance of pushing boundaries while respecting differing opinions, though it seems like some battles—like the one over this premiere—are tougher than others.
For now, it’s clear: Klebba’s excitement for the red carpet may have been dashed, but his appreciation for the film itself and the effort that went into it remains undiminished.
At the end of the day, Klebba is “bummed” because, like many of us, he was hoping to experience the thrill of a movie premiere. But alas, it’s a casualty of our ever-complicated world.
Whether you agree with the decision or not, one thing is certain: the drama surrounding Disney’s latest live-action remake is far from over, and Klebba’s feelings on the matter are a reflection of the growing tensions in Hollywood.