Classic ‘Snow White’ Nets Millions While Disney’s Remake Loses Everything
Disney has always banked on nostalgia. From castles to characters, the company has built an empire by reminding people of childhood wonder. But sometimes, those same reminders turn into harsh lessons—and nowhere is that more obvious than with Snow White (2025).
What was once supposed to be Disney’s proud reimagining of its first animated classic ended up becoming one of the company’s most painful failures. Rachel Zegler’s live-action version not only struggled at the box office but also left fans questioning why Disney thought it needed to exist in the first place.
A Costly Misstep
The film entered theaters already surrounded by controversy. Zegler’s comments labeling the 1937 version “outdated” didn’t sit well with longtime fans. Her political takes added fuel, and by the time Snow White hit screens in March 2025, the damage was done. The movie managed just $42 million domestically and stalled at $194 million worldwide—far below what it needed to cover its estimated $270 million budget and marketing. Disney ultimately took a loss of around $115 million.
A Divisive Star
Instead of helping the project shine, Zegler’s public persona became part of the storm. Her approach to the role—turning Snow White into a heroine with no interest in romance—clashed with what audiences expected. Even co-star Gal Gadot was pulled into backlash over unrelated political issues. What should have been a celebration of Disney’s legacy turned into a debate that overshadowed the film itself.
Disney Moves On
While Snow White fizzled, Disney shifted its focus. Lilo & Stitch (2025), released shortly after, delivered the kind of heartfelt, faithful storytelling fans wanted, becoming a box office win. The comparison only made Snow White’s failure look worse.
The Irony of Success
Adding insult to injury, an auction of original Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) artwork brought in $5.2 million. Individual pieces sold for more than $100,000 each, surpassing the “value” Disney earned from the live-action remake once losses were tallied. The fact that nearly 90-year-old paintings outperformed a big-budget film says everything.
A Lasting Lesson
The original Snow White (1937) built Disney into what it is today. Its remake, however, has become a case study in how not to handle a classic. Fans proved they’ll spend money on history they respect, but not on remakes that insult their love for the story. For Disney, the message is clear: nostalgia can’t be forced, and respect for the past still matters.
