Rachel Zegler wore a blindfold and white gown to the Met Gala on Monday as a political statement about her career controversies. Three days later, viral clips of her facial movements continue to generate millions of views and widespread criticism across social media platforms.
Met Gala Costume Sparks Medical Speculation
Zegler appeared on the Met Gala red carpet wearing a sheer silk blindfold across her eyes in a white gown. Video clips captured her jaw shifting and head tilting while posing for photographers. Internet users responded by accusing the actress of being under the influence, diagnosing her with medical conditions, or suggesting the blindfold was slipping. Some observers noted Zegler has always posed this way at public events, but the explanations failed to slow the spread of criticism.
The Colombian-American actress later confirmed her outfit referenced Paul Delaroche’s 1833 painting The Execution of Lady Jane Grey. The painting depicts a blindfolded teenage queen moments before execution after ruling England for nine days. Zegler’s Instagram caption about the costume ended with seven words stating others share her experience. The reference appeared aimed at her two-year controversy following her casting in Disney’s Snow White remake.
Box Office Failure Followed Boycott Campaigns
Disney’s live-action Snow White carried a reported 250 million dollar budget but failed to recoup costs in theaters. Boycotts organized months before the film’s release targeted Zegler’s public comments and questioned whether a Colombian-American actress should play the character. The actress faced sustained criticism across social media platforms throughout the production and release period. Zegler responded to the latest viral clips with a brief Instagram statement that generated tens of millions of views without directly addressing specific accusations.
Career Continues Despite Controversy
Three weeks before the Met Gala, Zegler accepted the Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical at London’s Royal Albert Hall on April 12. She won for portraying Eva Peron in the London Palladium revival of Evita, which will transfer to Broadway in spring 2027. The actress currently films a Lin-Manuel Miranda adaptation alongside Amanda Seyfried and Jonathan Groff. Her professional achievements receive minimal attention compared to the viral criticism of her public appearances.