Zegler, who is now starring as the titular princess in “ Snow White ,” told Allure that her breakout turn as María in Steven Spielberg’s “West Side Story” had some “confusion” in the casting process. Spielberg wanted the role of María to be played by a Latina actress.

Rachel Zegler said an interview with Allure magazine that white studio executives repeatedly questioned her during the casting process for Steven Spielberg’s “West Side Story,” which served as her acting breakthrough in Hollywood.

Rachel Zegler told Jimmy Kimmel that her 'West Side Story' director, Steven Spielberg, gave her a 'glowing recommendation' to 'Snow White' director Marc Webb.