Gal Gadot steals the spotlight at the 2025 Oscars: Rachel Zegler who?

Last night, the 97th Academy Awards lit up the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, and while the golden statuettes were the official stars of the evening, it was Gal Gadot who turned the red carpet into her own personal runway—and left her Snow White co-star Rachel Zegler in the dust.

Here’s how Gadot outshone everyone, including her on-screen stepdaughter, in a performance that was more dazzling than a Wonder Woman lasso twirl.

Red Carpet Royalty: Gadot’s Gown vs. Zegler’s Tulle

The evening kicked off with a sartorial showdown that wasn’t even close. Gadot strutted onto the red carpet in a strapless, slinky red gown that screamed Old Hollywood glamour with a modern twist. The dress radiated confidence and elegance, while her husband, Jaron Varsano, stood proudly by her side, rocking a silver pin that subtly nodded to the yellow-ribbon hostage awareness campaign. It was a power couple moment that we all aspire to.

Meanwhile, Zegler, the 23-year-old ingenue playing Snow White to Gadot’s Evil Queen in Disney’s upcoming live-action remake, opted for a nude-colored tulle confection by Christian Dior. Sure, it was ethereal and princess-y—perfect for her character—but next to Gadot’s bold, fiery red, it felt like a whisper lost in a shout. Zegler’s gown was lovely, don’t get us wrong, but Gadot’s was a statement. The kind of statement that says, “I’m here, I’m fabulous, and I’ve got this whole night in my pocket.”

Stage Presence: Gadot’s Charm, Zegler’s Smiles

When the duo hit the stage to present the Best Visual Effects award (which went to Dune: Part Two), it was Gadot who commanded the room. With her signature poise and a voice that could soothe a rampaging kaiju, she delivered her lines with the effortless cool of someone who’s fought villains in heels and won. Zegler tried, sure, but she just couldn’t match Gadot’s seasoned gravitas. Rumors of off-screen tension over Zegler’s pro-Palestinian posts and Gadot’s Israeli roots melted away as they played nice, but it was clear who the audience couldn’t take their eyes off.

The Glow-Up Factor: Gadot’s Star Power Shines Bright

Let’s talk star wattage. Gadot, at 39, brought a level of polish that only comes with years of dominating blockbuster screens as Wonder Woman. Her every move—whether posing with Varsano or bantering with host Conan O’Brien—exuded a been-there, slayed-that vibe. Next to Gadot, Zegler looked like she was still auditioning for the spotlight. To be honest though, few could stand toe-to-toe with a woman who’s basically a real-life superhero.

Social Media Buzz: The Internet Crowns Its Queen

Post-Oscars, X lit up with reactions, and the consensus was clear: Gadot was the night’s MVP. “Gal Gadot just walked in and said, ‘Rachel who?’—that red dress was EVERYTHING,” one user gushed. Another chimed in, “Zegler’s cute, but Gadot’s on a whole other level. Stage presence for days.” Even the fashion blogs couldn’t resist: “Gal Gadot’s red gown was a mic drop—sorry, Rachel, better luck next time.” The internet didn’t hold back, and neither did Gadot’s glow.

The Verdict: A Night for the Queen

Look, Rachel Zegler’s got a bright future—she’s got the pipes, the charm, and a starring role in a Disney blockbuster hitting theaters March 21. But last night? That was Gal Gadot’s playground. From the red carpet to the podium, she didn’t just outshine her co-star—she outshone the whole darn Oscars.

It’s not a rivalry; it’s a reality. Gadot’s the Evil Queen we’d all swear allegiance to, and Zegler’s Snow White might just have to wait her turn. Until then, we’ll be over here, bowing to the woman in red who turned Hollywood into her kingdom for a night. Long live the queen!