Rachel Zegler’s Comeback: Restoring Reputation in the Media
Published on December 4, 2023, 11:47 a.m.
by Caroline Raley.
Rachel Zegler, acclaimed as the lead actress in the highly anticipated film “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” has staged a remarkable resurgence in the public relations sphere. Prior to her involvement in this project, Zegler faced significant scrutiny after being cast as the lead in Disney’s reboot of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” The way she handled media interactions and online trolls drew substantial attention and criticism.
The Snow White PR fiasco showed insufficient research and a lack of correct media training when it came to Zegler’s social media responses as well as Disney’s responses. A Michigan Daily article stated, “Disney wouldn’t be caught dead releasing its employees out into the world without media training.” The article emphasized that Disney most likely “wanted to push feminist ideology and told Zegler exactly what she needed to say to get this point across.” The condemnation of Zegler could very well be blamed on Disney.
Yet, Zegler’s approach to managing the media surrounding “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” indicates a notable evolution in her public image. It seems her team’s strategy was risk management. Chances are, they carefully researched the audience for the new film and frequently went over key messages with the film’s publicity team to ensure lack of crisis and negativity. The Hunger Games franchise stands as one of the most significant and cherished series globally. Consequently, everyone involved should be on their best behavior.
As emphasized by A Design Partnership, the significance of reputation in today’s landscape cannot be overstated. It plays a crucial role in building, maintaining and protecting a franchise’s reputation.
Zegler’s transformation in her approach to media engagement demonstrates an awareness of the stakes involved. She appears to have learned from past experiences, recognizing the immense impact of her public persona on both the film’s success and her own career trajectory.
The heightened attention and adoration surrounding the Hunger Games universe serve as a catalyst for Zegler to recalibrate her interactions with the press and online platforms. When you search “Rachel Zegler” online, it no longer shows how everyone criticized and drug her image through the mud. Now, it shows her true talent and love of her role in “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.”
The evolution in Zegler’s PR tactics can be observed through her strategic engagements. Rather than engaging in an entitled approach to a beloved movie like “Snow White and the Seven Dwarves,” she now seems to navigate the intricacies of media with finesse and prudence.
Her emphasis on positivity and promoting the film’s essence, while minimizing potential conflicts, has been evident in recent interviews and social media interactions. For example, she has been doing press with her co-star and interviews where she states how the original series was a “bonding experience” for her and her family.
In an industry where perception often shapes opportunities and reception, Zegler’s newfound PR approach is commendable. However, reputation is not fixed overnight. Zegler is still chastised occasionally for her role in Snow White, but some could say that is simply the effects of cancel culture. The transformation in her demeanor signifies a maturation in handling the media circus that often surrounds high-profile projects.
As Zegler continues to navigate the complex landscape of public relations and media scrutiny, her adaptation stands as a testament to the evolving nature of reputation management for celebrities. With the release of “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” Zegler’s deliberate shift in approach is paving the way to a revitalized career.
