With Disney’s Snow White (2025) set to hit theaters on March 21, the studio’s live-action reimagining continues to face mounting criticism–this time over its controversial depiction of the seven dwarf characters.
The latest wave of backlash centers on Disney’s decision to render the seven characters entirely in CGI, a move that has sparked strong reactions from members of the dwarfism community.
Performer and bodybuilder Choon Tan, who has dwarfism, told the Daily Mail that the studio’s choice was “absolutely absurd and discriminating in a sense.” He added, “I think Disney is trying too hard to be politically correct, but in doing so it’s damaging our careers and opportunities.”
Tan expanded further, stating, “There really is nothing wrong casting someone with dwarfism as a dwarf in any given opportunity. As long as we are treated equally and with respect, we’re usually more than happy to take on any acting roles that are suitable for us […] Plus it’s also an opportunity for young children to see someone with dwarfism, which they may have never seen before.”
Fellow performer Blake Johnston echoed Tan’s frustration, telling the outlet, “We have plenty of dwarf actors out there who are dying for roles like this. I think Disney [has succumbed] to peer pressure on political correctness, which has now given top dwarf actors less work.”
Johnston added, “Once again this will limit us more […] I’m offended by the decision because Disney had the greatest educational story of all time — now they have made it as a joke.”
A Film Surrounded by Controversy
Disney’s Snow White, directed by Marc Webb and starring Rachel Zegler as the iconic princess, has faced a tumultuous road to release. The film’s initial decision to reimagine the seven dwarfs as “magical creatures,” following Peter Dinklage’s criticism sparked backlash.
In response to the backlash, Disney released a statement explaining their revised approach:
“To avoid reinforcing stereotypes from the original animated film, we are taking a different approach with these seven characters and have been consulting with members of the dwarfism community.”
When behind-the-scenes images seemingly revealed that these characters would instead be portrayed by actors of various heights and ethnicities, controversy flared again. Jason “Wee Man” Acuña (Jackass: The Movie) voiced his concerns at the time, stating, “You’re replacing jobs that people could have as little people. It’s for dwarfs. Why are you hiring ‘Snow White and the seven average people’?”
Despite these efforts, Disney ultimately shifted to fully CGI characters. Martin Klebba was confirmed as the voice of Grumpy, with a voice cast that now includes Andrew Barth Feldman (Dopey/Narrator), Tituss Burgess (Bashful), Jason Kravits (Sneezy), George Salazar (Happy), Jeremy Swift (Doc), and Andrew Grotelueschen (Sleepy).
Creative Changes and Delays
The controversy over the dwarf characters is just one of many hurdles the project has faced. Zegler’s casting as Snow White drew comparisons to Halle Bailey’s role as Ariel in 2023’s The Little Mermaid, with both actresses addressing the importance of representation in a 2023 Variety “Actors on Actors” interview.
However, Zegler’s comments about Snow White’s narrative direction added fuel to the fire. During the 2022 D23 Expo, she described the prince as a “stalker” and emphasized that this version of the story would focus more on “leadership and strength” rather than romance.
The film has also revised Snow White’s origin story. In a recent interview, Zegler revealed that in this adaptation, Snow White’s name stems from her surviving a snowstorm as a baby — a departure from the traditional Grimm Brothers’ tale where her name reflects her pale complexion.
An international trailer doubled down on this revision, featuring Zegler’s voiceover stating, “To honor the day I was born, my father named me Snow White.”
The film will also introduce a new original song, “Waiting on a Wish,” composed by Pasek and Paul. Zegler performed the track earlier this week at the private event at the Alcázar de Segovia in Spain.
Disney’s Marketing Strategy Shifts
As the film’s debut nears, Disney’s promotional efforts have drawn attention for their unconventional approach. The studio recently scaled back its press campaign, opting to hold a secluded Spain-based event in place of a traditional London premiere. Additionally, the Los Angeles premiere will limit press access, with only Disney’s in-house crew permitted to interview the cast (per The Hollywood Reporter).
Amid the ongoing controversy, speculation has grown regarding Disney’s confidence in the project. While the studio reaffirmed Snow White‘s March 21, 2025, release date in a recent press release, the film’s absence from Disney’s Q4 2024 financial disclosures raised eyebrows. Despite updates on other major films like Captain America: Brave New World and Avatar: Fire and Ash, Snow White was notably missing from Disney’s earnings report.
Forbes previously reported that the film’s budget may have ballooned to nearly $300 million. Early projections suggest Snow White could open to just $50-56 million domestically, potentially marking one of the weakest starts for a Disney live-action remake.
Legacy on the Line
As Disney’s first full-length animated feature, 1937’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs holds a legendary status in film history. The original film’s $8 million box office haul on a $1.49 million budget was groundbreaking for its time, earning Walt Disney an honorary Academy Award — one full-sized Oscar and seven miniature statuettes.
With a screenplay by Erin Cressida Wilson, Disney’s Snow White aims to balance the weight of that legacy with modern sensibilities. But with controversy continuing to dominate headlines, the biggest question remains — will audiences show up?
What are your thoughts on Disney’s Snow White? Share your opinions in the comments below.
