Steven Spielberg & Rachel Zegler Share Heartfelt Reunion in London
A touching reunion between Hollywood director Steven Spielberg and rising star Rachel Zegler recently captured attention. The actress, who rose to fame in Spielberg’s West Side Story, shared a warm Instagram post of the moment.
Zegler posted a photo of Spielberg planting a gentle kiss on her cheek during his visit to the London Palladium for the August 27 performance of Evita. The snap, part of a series, highlighted their close bond.
In her caption, Zegler said: “A man who believed in me when i was 17 and is the reason i was ushered into the many opportunities i have been blessed with thus far.”
She added: “Seven years later and he’s still so supportive of every venture, and i couldn’t be more thankful. Steven Spielberg, you changed my life.”
Rachel Zegler reunites with Steven Spielberg in a new photo. pic.twitter.com/ULawJ6lltY
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She also expressed her gratitude through her work: “I may never be truly able to return the favor, but i hope a performance of “Rainbow High’ every now and then gives you some comfort in knowing I am taking care of the career (Kristie and) you’ve so graciously given me.”
She concluded: “Grateful isn’t the right word. Indebted, maybe. You get the picture.”
Their connection started in 2018 when Spielberg discovered Zegler at an open audition for West Side Story. At just 17, she was cast as Maria, marking her feature film debut in 2021.
The film, starring Ansel Elgort, Ariana DeBose, and Mike Faist, earned seven Academy Award nominations.
Since then, Zegler has expanded her career with projects like Shazam! Fury of the Gods, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Y2K, Spellbound, and Disney’s live-action Snow White.
This reunion in London not only highlights their personal connection but also Spielberg’s lasting influence on Zegler’s career. Fans were quick to react, appreciating the rare glimpse into the mentorship that shaped her journey.