Disney’s reimagining of “Snow White” faces ongoing challenges, with Lebanon becoming the latest country to withhold its release. The film has been banned due to concerns surrounding star Gal Gadot’s Israeli nationality and her vocal advocacy for Israel.
As reported by Variety, Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar made the decision following pressure from a Lebanese film and media watchdog group. Italia Films, distributor of Disney films in the Middle East, confirmed Gadot’s presence on Lebanon’s “Israel boycott list,” noting that no film featuring her has previously been shown within the country. This situation is further complicated by recent Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah forces near the border.
The ban adds to a series of setbacks for “Snow White,” which experienced a disappointing debut last month. Initial domestic earnings reached $43 million, but plummeted to just $14.2 million in its second weekend—a significant 66% drop.
Gadot portrays the evil queen in the film and was born and served in the Israeli Defense Forces before launching her Hollywood career. Following the October 7th Hamas attack and the subsequent rise of antisemitism, she has become an outspoken advocate for Israel.
“I was shocked by the amount of hate, by the amount of how much people think they know when they actually have no idea, and also by how the media is not fair many times,” Gadot stated in a March interview with Variety.
During her Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony later that month, she emphasized the importance of speaking out against antisemitism.
“This is a time when many of us in the Jewish community have had to find our voice and confront the hatred against us, even if it’s extremely uncomfortable.”
The ceremony itself was met with protests from anti-Israel demonstrators who clashed with pro-Israel supporters, leading to multiple arrests.
Gadot has taken further action by organizing a Hollywood screening showcasing 47 minutes of Israeli Defense Forces footage documenting the events of October 7th. She initially expressed her support for Israel on social media shortly after the attack, condemning the terrorist act.
Rumors suggest Gadot’s pro-Israel stance may have created tension with co-star Rachel Zegler, who previously posted “And always remember, free Palestine” on X.
This is not an isolated incident. In February, Lebanese censors also blocked the release of “Captain America: Brave New World” due to actress Shira Haas’s Israeli citizenship.
Representatives for Gadot have not yet responded to requests for comment.
The ongoing controversies surrounding these films highlight the complexities of international politics and their potential impact on entertainment releases in various regions.
Here’s a summary of key facts preserved:
* Lebanon banned “Snow White” due to Gal Gadot’s Israeli nationality and activism.
* Gadot has been outspoken about her support for Israel following the October 7th attacks.
* The film experienced a weak opening weekend and subsequent decline in viewership.
* A similar situation occurred with “Captain America: Brave New World,” also blocked due to an actress’s Israeli citizenship.
