Fan support prompts Academy to extend an invitation to the West Side Story star.

Rachel Zegler has reportedly been invited to present at this year’s Oscars following widespread fan criticism over her initial claim that she hadn’t received an invitation to the ceremony.

The West Side Story actress, 20, made headlines earlier this week when she revealed she would not be attending the prestigious event due to not being invited. Zegler rose to fame as Maria in Steven Spielberg’s 2021 adaptation of the iconic Broadway musical, which earned seven Academy Award nominations, including Best Director and a win for Ariana DeBose in Best Supporting Actress.

After public outrage, The Hollywood Reporter confirmed on Tuesday that Zegler would indeed be part of the Oscars ceremony as a presenter. Prominent figures such as Russ Tamblyn, the original West Side Story gang leader Riff in the 1961 adaptation, voiced their support for Zegler’s inclusion. Taking to Twitter, Tamblyn wrote: “@TheAcademy As a voting member and the original Riff, let me say: it’s your duty to find Rachel a seat at the Oscars.”

Addressing the controversy, Zegler shared her gratitude for the support but remained diplomatic on social media, saying: “Let’s all just respect the process and I’ll get off my phone.”

Currently, Zegler is in London filming Disney’s live-action Snow White adaptation but will now make her way to the Oscars for the presentation slot.

The shift represents a significant win for Zegler and demonstrates the influence of fan pressure and public opinion in reshaping inclusion at high-profile industry events.