In a surprising turn of events, actors Bella Ramsey and Rachel Zegler have made headlines for their strong reactions to a wave of online memes targeting them. The two young stars, known for their roles in HBO’s The Last of Us and Disney’s live-action Snow White remake, respectively, have reportedly expressed frustration over the viral content mocking their performances and public personas. Sources close to the actors suggest they are considering legal action against those responsible for creating and spreading these memes, raising questions about freedom of expression, online harassment, and the pressures of fame in the digital age.
The controversy began when memes poking fun at Ramsey and Zegler started circulating widely on platforms like X and other social media sites. For Ramsey, the memes largely centered on their role as Ellie in The Last of Us, with some users mocking their appearance or questioning their casting in the highly anticipated second season, set to premiere on April 13, 2025. Zegler, on the other hand, has faced relentless scrutiny following the commercial failure of Disney’s Snow White, which grossed only $69 million domestically against a $270 million budget. Memes targeting Zegler often referenced her outspoken political comments, including her “free Palestine” post and criticisms of the original 1937 Snow White film, which she called “weird” and “creepy.” These remarks, combined with the film’s poor box office performance, have made her a lightning rod for online criticism.
The memes, while often intended as humor, have struck a nerve with both actors. According to reports, Ramsey and Zegler feel that the online content crosses the line into personal attacks, damaging their reputations and mental well-being. Sources claim the actors are “fed up” with the constant ridicule and are exploring legal options to hold creators accountable. Potential lawsuits could hinge on claims of defamation, cyberbullying, or emotional distress, though legal experts note that such cases are notoriously difficult to win, especially when memes are satirical or based on publicly available information. The actors’ determination to pursue legal action has sparked a heated debate about where to draw the line between free speech and harmful content online.
Zegler’s situation, in particular, has been complicated by her high-profile controversies. Her comments about Snow White and her political posts, including a now-infamous “f*** Donald Trump” Instagram story, have fueled backlash from conservative audiences and Disney fans alike. The studio reportedly hired a “social media guru” to vet her posts after these incidents, and producer Marc Platt flew to New York to address her social media activity. Despite issuing an apology for letting her “emotions get the best of me,” Zegler has remained a polarizing figure. The memes mocking her often exaggerate her statements or appearance, with some comparing her unfavorably to co-star Gal Gadot or questioning her suitability as Snow White. This online pile-on has reportedly left Zegler feeling scapegoated for the film’s failure, despite support from peers like Pedro Pascal, who called her an “icon” on Instagram.
Ramsey, meanwhile, has faced less intense but equally personal criticism. As a non-binary actor, they have been targeted by memes that misgender them or mock their performance in The Last of Us. The show’s massive fanbase has amplified these memes, with some fans expressing disappointment over perceived deviations from the video game source material. Ramsey’s decision to join Zegler in considering legal action suggests a shared frustration with the relentless nature of online trolling. Both actors, still early in their careers, are navigating the challenges of fame in an era where social media can turn minor controversies into global spectacles.
The potential lawsuits have divided public opinion. Supporters argue that Ramsey and Zegler are victims of targeted harassment, with memes contributing to a toxic environment that disproportionately affects young women and marginalized groups in Hollywood. Film critic Kelechi Ehenulo has described Zegler as a victim of “culture wars,” noting that actors from underrepresented backgrounds often face heightened scrutiny. Others, however, view the actors’ legal threats as an overreach, arguing that memes are a form of protected speech and a natural part of public life for celebrities. Critics point out that Zegler’s own social media activity has fueled much of the backlash, suggesting she bears some responsibility for the controversy.
As the situation unfolds, the entertainment industry is watching closely. A successful lawsuit could set a precedent for how celebrities address online criticism, potentially chilling creative expression on platforms like X. Conversely, a failed lawsuit might embolden trolls to push boundaries further. For Ramsey and Zegler, the decision to pursue legal action reflects a broader struggle to maintain control over their public image in an era where memes can define reputations overnight. Whether their efforts will curb online mockery or simply amplify it remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the intersection of fame, social media, and free speech has never been more contentious.
