Part 8/10:
The controversy around Zegler is symptomatic of broader issues facing Disney in the era of social media and heightened cultural sensitivity. Fans have been vocal in criticizing the studio’s push towards what they perceive as “wokeness,” especially in reboots of beloved classics. Many see Disney's damage control as a superficial attempt to salvage its reputation, which it is struggling to do amid mounting criticism.
The PR teams have been spotted trying to spin Zegler’s comments in a positive light—emphasizing her supposed lifelong admiration for Disney—despite online evidence of her previous interviews revealing the opposite. The disconnect between her words and her past statements underscores the challenges Disney faces in managing narratives and public perception.