Rachel Zegler wants to play gender-swapped Hamlet

Rachel Zegler is setting her sights on Shakespeare, revealing she would love to take on a bold new version of one of the playwright’s most iconic roles.

In a recent interview, the West Side Story and Snow White star said she is eager to explore more stage work, particularly a gender-swapped take on Hamlet. “If they’ll have me, I’m dying to do more Shakespeare,” she said, adding, “I’d love to do a female Hamlet.”

While she acknowledged the role isn’t exactly “fun,” Zegler emphasized her enthusiasm for tackling such a complex and iconic character. Gender-flipped interpretations of Hamlet have been staged before, with actors like Ruth Negga and Cush Jumbo previously earning acclaim for similar performances.

Beyond her Shakespeare ambitions, Zegler also teased an upcoming project she is currently working on but cannot yet reveal. “A musical film I’m really excited about… I wish I could tell you what it is,” she said, hinting at collaborations with “amazing people.”

The actress, 24, also reflected on her growing confidence as a performer following her recent stage work in London’s West End production of Evita. Despite admitting, “I’m terrified of everything,” she added, “I’m a really good actress,” expressing belief in her ability to take on challenging, high-profile roles.

Zegler said she felt a strong sense of determination when pursuing past roles, recalling how she pushed her team to secure opportunities she believed she was right for. “I don’t care what it takes… no one can do it like me,” she said.