Disney responds to Peter Dinklage’s criticism of ‘Snow White’ live-action remake

Following harsh criticism levelled at Disney’s upcoming live-action remake of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs by Game of Thrones actor Peter Dinklage, the studio has issued a statement on how they will be “consulting with members of the dwarfism community” for the film. Disney said the step will be taken to “avoid reinforcing stereotypes”.

Commenting on the casting of Latina actor Rachel Zegler of West Side Story fame as Snow White, Dinklage said during an appearance on Marc Maron’s WTF podcast, “Literally no offence to anyone, but I was a little taken aback when they were very proud to cast a Latina actress as Snow White — but you’re still telling the story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.”

He continued, “Take a step back and look at what you’re doing there. It makes no sense to me. You’re progressive in one way, but then you’re still making that backward story about seven dwarfs living in a cave together? What are you doing, man? Have I done nothing to advance the cause from my soapbox? I guess I’m not loud enough.”     

In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, Disney attempted to set the record straight. It read, “To avoid reinforcing stereotypes from the original animated film, we are taking a different approach with these seven characters and have been consulting with members of the dwarfism community. We look forward to sharing more as the film heads into production after a lengthy development period.”

Previously, director, Marc Webb, along with producer Marc Platt confirmed that the production for Disney’s live-action adaptation of the fairytale will begin this year. Red Notice actor Gal Gadot is set to star as the Evil Queen opposite Zegler’s Snow White. The film has been in development for over three years, with special attention being paid to the reimagining of the dwarf characters.

The 1938 cartoon adaptation of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was Disney’s inaugural animated feature and became a massive success for the studio. The original animated series was based on the Brothers Grimm fairytale.