Rachel Zegler got her breakthrough role in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’

Rachel Zegler is looking back with gratitude at the man who helped launch her Hollywood career.

The 24-year-old actress shared photos on Instagram Thursday, August 28, of herself with Steven Spielberg after the legendary director attended a performance of Evita in London, where Zegler currently stars.

In her caption, she reflected on how much his support has meant since casting her in West Side Story.

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“we had a very special guest @officialevita last weekend — 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,” Zegler wrote.

“seven years later and he’s still so supportive of every venture, and i couldn’t be more thankful,” she continued. “steven spielberg, you changed my life. 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. grateful isn’t the right word. indebted, maybe. you get the picture.”

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Zegler was just 17 when Spielberg cast her as Maria in his 2021 remake of the classic West Side Story. The breakout role earned her wide acclaim and led to a string of projects, including Shazam! Fury of the Gods, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, and Disney’s live-action Snow White.

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