Rachel Zegler: The Actress Set to Star in 'The Hunger Games' Prequel

Rachel Zelger is set to star in the highly-anticipated prequel "The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" after taking the stage in "West Side Story." Here's more about the budding actress.

When "The Hunger Games" film franchise came out years ago, fans of both the books and moviegoers new to the storyline were left in awe by the thrilling and unique plot.

Years later, Lionsgate Movies is releasing the prequel to "The Hunger Games" films, "The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes."

Although the teaser did not give as much context to the film, it focused on two parties, represented by a snake and a songbird, and how their conflict established the Hunger Games.

While the film is adapted from Suzanne Collins's book, fans have yet to know if the movie details will be exactly the same. However, Katniss Everdeen will likely not be making an appearance since the story's setting took place decades before her time.

RACHEL ZEGLER'S ROLE IN "THE HUNGER GAMES" PREQUEL

Rachel Zegler is set to star in the highly-anticipated prequel as Lucy Gray Baird, the mentee of then-18-year-old Coriolanus Snow. Nathan Kahane, the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group president, said:

"When you read Suzanne's book, Lucy Gray's emotional intelligence, physical agility, and fiercely powerful, determined singing voice shine through. Rachel embodies all of those skills. She is the perfect choice for our Lucy Gray."

Zelger made waves in the acting scene after her impeccable performance in "West Side Story" captivated the hearts of audiences. Despite focusing on her career, Zegler remains grounded and family-centered.

RACHEL ZEGLER'S PERSONALITY

"My relationship with my family, my 'core four,' as I call us – my mom, my dad, my older sister, and me – has stayed the same, truly," she said. Zegler's mom has supported her acting career and even let go of her job to be with the budding actress in the "West Side Story" set each day.

Zegler credits her mother for the guidance she had growing up and claims she wouldn't have navigated through life well without the older Zegler. Now older and performing across the world, she misses what once was.

As an actress, Zegler knows the criticism that awaits and the challenges that come with hearing them. Still, she exudes confidence in her craft and gets paid for pursuing her passion.

WHO IS RACHEL ZEGLER DATING NOW?

Zegler's career also opened the doors for romance as she fell in love with her "West Side Story" co-star Josh Andres Rivera.

The couple made their relationship Instagram official on Valentine's Day. The actress posted a black and white photo with her boyfriend, captioned "committing valen-crimes." She also shared a video of Rivera feeding her while having dinner.

Rivera played Zegler's supposed love interest in "West Side Story." Ansel Elgort, instead, became her on-screen lover. Naturally, Zegler and Elgort grew close on set and knew his genuine personality.

In one of her tweets, Zegler claimed it was easy to fall in love with Elgort, which stirred controversy amongst fans who called the actress a homewrecker. As a result, Zegler took a break from social media to let the noise die down. Nevertheless, she stayed strong and did not let anyone bring her down.