When Gal Gadot was cast as Wonder Woman in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, many fans were sceptical about whether or not the actress would be able to pull off the role. After all, her acting credits were limited and she didn't really have any blockbuster experience outside of a minor role in the Fast & Furious franchise. However, she's since excelled in the role and is now a beloved fan-favourite.
After starring in both Wonder Woman and Justice League this year, Gadot's star is very much on the rise and she was recently honoured with the Rising Star Award at the Palm Springs Festival.
In her speech, she thanked Zack Snyder for saving her career by casting her as the Amazon warrior.
"Thank you so much for this honor. This is all very new to me and weird and I feel so humbled to be here, especially in a room filled with people that I’m inspired by and admire so much. Thank you. I’ve always felt that it was rewarding enough to do what I love and to work with such wonderful people. So to also be given this award is really, really special.
"Four years ago, I got tired of all the ‘no’s and the rejections that I just wanted to quit acting. But of course the universe works in mysterious and wonderful ways and I received a phone call that I got this very special part. Zack Snyder had this strong vision of who Wonder Woman should be and I am forever grateful that he gave me the opportunity to play this iconic character. Thank you Zack for believing in me.
"Working on Wonder Woman was a life-changing experience. This character represents so much that I believe in. She’s about doing the right thing, helping others, sticking to her beliefs, and she’s motivated by the most beautiful quality: love. This is something we all need and are inspired by."
Unfortunately, Snyder and Gadot are unlikely to get the opportunity to work together again and certainly not in the DC Films Universe. On the plus side, the actress will get the chance to play Wonder Woman again in Patty Jenkins' planned sequel so stay tuned for updates on that as we have them.