Skip to Main Content
Art & Culture

From West Side Story to Snow White: Rachel Zegler’s Journey of Impactful Storytelling

Image by Inez & Vinoodh

25 Jul '25
By The Shift
25 Jul '25
By The Shift

The Shift highlights women’s stories through the lens of impact. It hopes to contextualize history and inspire action.

R

Rachel Zegler is an award-winning actress whose debut in West Side Story earned her a Golden Globe. Her film credits include The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes and Snow White. She made her Broadway debut in Romeo + Juliet and will soon be seen in Evita.

The Shift:

Who are three women that inspire you

Rachel:

My mom

Lucy Liu

Helen Mirren

The Shift:

What is one defining moment in your career or life that empowered you to create change, and how has it shaped the path you’re on today?

Rachel:

I have been very fortunate in my career thus far to work on projects that reflect my values as an individual living in this world. From the emphasis on the importance of migration and immigration in the United States in West Side Story, to playing the rebellious Lucy Gray Baird who stands up to unfair institutions in The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, and exploring the power of good versus evil in Snow White, I’ve had the opportunity to show the world who I am through stepping into the shoes of strong and powerful women. Stories like this change people’s lives. Watching films like Erin Brockovich made me believe in a woman’s ability to make real change by saying what’s on her mind. If I can be a small part in the shift of perspective for young people through my own work, I will be very grateful. I hope to continue making art that showcases what’s in my heart if I’m fortunate enough to do so, and can’t wait to see what the future has in store for women in my industry. Together we can make a real difference.

_____

Rachel Zegler is honored as part of The Shift’s “90 Plus One” list, which recognizes influential women shaping contemporary culture. With Gloria Steinem featured on the inaugural print cover, the list pays homage to her 91 years of activism by highlighting a powerhouse community of women shifting culture.