Rachel Zegler

thumb|Zegler in 2025 Rachel Anne Zegler (born May 3, 2001) is an American actress and singer. Zegler gained wide recognition for her performance as María in Steven Spielberg's film adaptation West Side Story (2021), winning the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. Quotes I'm a young Latina woman growing up in a primarily white area of town where I live. I've been called it all. My hate comments on YouTube tell me to go back to where I came from. I was born in Hackensack Hospital. I'll go back there. Kramer, Peter D. (April 11, 2019). "Steven Spielberg's 'West Side Story' Maria on stage in Lodi this weekend". The North Jersey Record. It's the most jarring feeling as someone who is quite literally in therapy for impostor syndrome. You're sitting at the table with the likes of these incredible actors, singers, activists, Olympians, models who have earned their due. They earned their seat at the table, and you can't help but think, 'What am I doing here?' Kuperinsky, Amy (December 10, 2021). "Rachel Zegler almost didn't audition for 'West Side Story.' the new Maria on the role that changed her life". NJ.com. When I was in the running for María in 'West Side Story,' they kept calling to ask if I was legit. I remember thinking, 'Do you want me to bring my abuelita in?' I will. I'll bring her into the studio if you want to meet her. De Loera, Carlos (March 18, 2025). "Rachel Zegler says execs asked if she was 'legit' Latina in 'West Side Story' casting". Los Angeles Times. We just need to normalise our hearts' not having boundaries. I think that there's this idea that we as public figures can't have thoughts or feelings because we are like paper dolls to a majority of the public. Tsjeng, Zing (October 27, 2025). "Rachel Zegler is rising on her own terms". Glamour UK. On actors speaking freely about their opinions. External links Category:2001 births Category:Living people Category:Actresses from New Jersey Category:Women singers from the United States Category:Hispanic Americans Category:Pop singers Category:Best Musical or Comedy Actress Golden Globe (film) winners Category:YouTubers from the United States