Rachel Zegler is one of the brightest names in Hollywood. She is currently starring in the West End revival “Evita” which is generating tons of online buzz. Her journey from a YouTube sensation to a rising star in both film and theater showcases her unique ability to captivate audiences with her performances and her advocacy for representation and inclusion. Here’s a deeper look into her incredible career trajectory.
Born on May 3, 2001, in Hackensack, New Jersey, Rachel Zegler’s love for theater blossomed early on. At just four years old, she was enchanted by the magic of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast and soon found herself participating in high school musicals, such as Shrek, 42nd Street, and The Little Mermaid. Her undeniable talent led her to win Metro Award nominations for her roles.
Rachel’s breakthrough came in her teenage years when she started posting cover videos on YouTube. Her rendition of Shallow, from “A Star Is Born”, went viral, catching the eye of casting agents and film producers. Little did she know, that one viral video would be the stepping stone to a life-changing career in Hollywood.
Rachel Zegler Breakthrough: “West Side Story” (2001)
Rachel’s career reached new heights when she was cast as María in Steven Spielberg’s 2021 remake of “West Side Story”. She was just 16 years old and was picked from over 30,000 hopefuls after submitting a homemade video audition. The film, which was a reimagining of the 1961 classic, proved to be a perfect showcase for her remarkable talent.
Her portrayal of María earned her widespread acclaim. Rachel became the youngest and first Latina-heritage actress to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy. She also earned a Critics’ Choice Award nomination, solidifying her status as one of Hollywood’s most exciting new talents. The role was more than just a performance; it was a milestone for representation in film, as Rachel brought a fresh and authentic voice to the iconic character.
Expanding Into New Genres
After the success of “West Side Story”, Rachel’s career quickly expanded beyond musical theater. In 2023, she joined the DC Universe in “Shazam! Fury of the Gods”, playing the character of Anthea. The superhero genre gave Rachel an opportunity to show her range, moving from musicals to action-packed blockbusters.
She also landed the role of Lucy Gray Baird in “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes” (2023), a prequel to the beloved franchise. The film opened to critical and commercial success, further cementing her place in the industry.
Perhaps most notably, Rachel was cast as “Snow White” in Disney’s live-action remake, which was released in 2025. Despite the film facing mixed reviews at the box office, Rachel’s performance was widely praised. Her portrayal of the beloved character was acclaimed for its charm and depth, with many noting how she brought a fresh, empowering take on the iconic role.
A Return to the Stage: Broadway and Beyond
While Rachel’s film career has been soaring, she has not forgotten her theater roots. In 2024, she made her Broadway debut as Juliet in the production of “Romeo + Juliet”. The role is a major milestone for any actor, and Rachel’s performance has been highly praised for its passion and depth.
While Rachel’s film career has been soaring, she has not forgotten her theater roots. In 2024, she made a major return to the stage, starring as Eva Perón in “Evita” on the West End at London’s Palladium. The performance has become a massive talking point, with particular attention drawn to her emotional and powerful rendition of “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” during the iconic balcony scene.
The performance has become so popular that hundreds of fans have gathered outside the theater to watch Rachel sing the song from the balcony, leading to significant online chatter. Celebrities like Pedro Pascal and Sarah Paulson were in attendance for the opening night this week, adding to the buzz surrounding the production.
Given the show’s early success and Rachel’s widely praised performance, there are already talks of a Broadway transfer, which could happen as early as 2026, bringing her powerful portrayal of Eva Perón to New York City.
Rachel Zegler’s career is one of trailblazing achievements. As the first Latina actress to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy, she has shattered barriers and paved the way for greater representation in Hollywood. But what truly sets Rachel apart is her authenticity, her ability to move between genres, and her unwavering commitment to advocacy. She is not just a star—she’s a voice for change.
From her viral audition to becoming a global sensation, Rachel Zegler is on a trajectory that promises even more incredible achievements. As she continues to take on bold new roles, fans can look forward to witnessing the evolution of one of the most dynamic and inspiring talents of her generation.
