Disney forced to boost Gal Gadot's security following death threats linked to Rachel Zegler’s Pro-Palestinian post

The escalation stems from a controversial social media post by Rachel Zegler, Gadot’s co-star in the upcoming 'Snow White' remake, who wrote “Free Palestine” in an August 2024 statement meant to promote the film.

Sources close to the production claim Zegler’s outspoken pro-Palestinian stance ignited a backlash that has now endangered Gadot, prompting Disney to fund round-the-clock protection for the 'Wonder Woman' actress, her husband, and their four daughters.

The threats against Gadot intensified after Zegler’s post, which she refused to delete despite pressure from Disney executives. A studio insider told 'Variety', “Rachel didn’t grasp the ripple effect her actions would have—on the film, on Gal, on everyone.” Disney raised concerns with Zegler’s team, and producer Marc Platt flew to New York to urge her to avoid political statements, but the 23-year-old actress stood firm. Her defiance—coupled with a later Instagram rant against Donald Trump and his supporters following the U.S. presidential election—further strained her ties with the studio, already fraying since 2022. Disney eventually hired a social media expert to vet Zegler’s posts ahead of the film’s March 21 premiere.

Gadot, meanwhile, has continued advocating for the return of Israeli hostages taken during Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack, but kept her activism separate from 'Snow White' promotion, adhering to studio guidelines both actresses were given. Industry analysts say Zegler’s polarizing remarks have tanked the film’s global box office prospects, with mediocre reviews and years of negative buzz dragging it down. “They say all publicity is good publicity, but 'Snow White' proves that wrong,” box office analyst Jeff Bock told 'Variety'. “Too much controversy has overshadowed it, pushing this live-action adventure off viewers’ radar.” For Gadot, the fallout has meant living under guard, a stark price for a co-star’s unchecked words.