West Side Story star Rachel Zegler took to social media to reveal she won’t be attending the upcoming Academy Awards because she wasn’t invited. The actress replied to a fan who said they couldn’t wait to see her outfit at the Oscars.
But, although Steven Spielberg’s romance musical received seven nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director, the 20-year-old New Jersey native isn’t part of the guest list.
“I have tried it all, but it doesn’t seem to be happening,” Zegler wrote to the fan. “I will root for West Side Story from my couch and be proud of the work we so tirelessly did 3 years ago. I hope some last minute miracle occurs, and I can celebrate with our film in person, but hey, that’s how it goes sometimes.” She added, “I’m disappointed, too. But that’s okay. So proud of our movie.”
Zegler published a follow-up tweet thanking all the support and calling on fans to “just respect the process.”
“my goodness, folks!! Appreciate all the support, i really really do. we live in such unprecedented times, and a lot of work behind the scenes goes into making movie magic happen. that goes for film productions (like the one I am so lucky to be currently shooting in London),” she wrote.
The 94th Academy Awards airs on March 27 on ABC at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST.