Rachel Zegler defends bodyguard during fan clash outside Evita performance in London
Rachel Zegler stars as the film’s heroine. Photo: AFP
Rachel Zegler is receiving widespread praise online for defending her bodyguard during a recent interaction with a fan. The 24-year-old actress, currently starring in Evita at the London Palladium, was filmed addressing a concerned autograph-seeker who appeared to take issue with her bodyguard’s protective behavior.
In a TikTok video that captured the moment, Zegler is heard calmly saying, “He is protecting me,” while signing autographs. When the fan replied that there was “no need to shove,” Zegler remained composed, explaining, “He works here and he’s helping me, because crowds are very intimidating.”
Rachel Zegler helps diffuse a situation involving a fan and her bodyguard at the ‘Evita’ stage door:
“Please don’t disrespect my Danny” pic.twitter.com/HjeU6j98TMAs the fan pushed back, Zegler responded affectionately yet firmly: “I know babe, and I love you so much, but please don’t disrespect my Danny, okay?” referring to her bodyguard by name. The moment quickly went viral, with viewers applauding Zegler’s calm and respectful stance. One comment that resonated widely read, “Please don’t disrespect my Danny is everything.”
Zegler later acknowledged the clip, reposting a fan’s message that read, “he OUR Danny now mawma.” Many praised her response, with some calling her a “Disney princess” both in character and in real life. Others criticized the situation, noting the absurdity of having to justify a bodyguard’s presence for safety.
Zegler is currently headlining the London revival of Evita, which opened June 14 and runs through September 6. In a unique staging, she steps onto the Palladium’s balcony to perform “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” allowing passersby to hear the iconic number live.
Despite previous controversy surrounding her casting in Snow White, Zegler told Vogue she remains proud of her work. “It was a lot of wonderful hard work,” she said, adding that she cares deeply about every role she plays.