Rachel Zegler

Rachel Zegler is an actress and singer best known for her breakout role as María in Steven Spielberg's 2021 adaptation of "West Side Story." Born in Hackensack, New Jersey, to a Colombian mother and a Polish father, Zegler grew up performing in school productions and local theater. Her talent was discovered when she responded to an open casting call for "West Side Story," beating out thousands of applicants for the lead role. Her portrayal of María earned critical acclaim, and she won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy, making her the youngest winner in the category's history.

Following her success in "West Side Story," Zegler quickly gained attention in Hollywood. She appeared in the superhero film "Shazam! Fury of the Gods" and starred in "The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes." She voiced the lead character in Netflix's animated musical "Spellbound" and marked her Broadway debut in the musical adaptation of "Romeo + Juliet," both in the fall of 2024. In 2025, she starred in Disney's live-action remake of "Snow White."

Zegler's growing versatility has earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of AP Entertainment's Breakthrough Entertainers of 2021 and making Forbes' prestigious 30 Under 30 list in 2022.