Sydney Sweeney Shelves Phone Amid American Eagle Jeans Ad Controversy
Weeks after the release of her ad for American Eagle, actress Sydney Sweeney addresses the surrounding controversy. The star of popular series like Euphoria and White Lotus shared her thoughts in a recent interview with GQ.
Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle Jeans Ad
Sweeney featured in an ad that cleverly plays on the words “jeans” and “genes.” While the intention was lighthearted, some critics interpreted it as having eugenicist implications. Eugenics is a widely discredited theory that promotes selectively breeding human traits.
In the ad, Sweeney states, “Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair color, personality, and even eye color. My jeans are blue.” This statement sparked considerable debate online.
Public and Celebrity Reactions
- American Eagle responded to the backlash, clarifying that the ad was about jeans, not genetics.
- The company emphasized its commitment to celebrating individuality in their marketing.
- Prominent figures like former President Donald Trump and Vice-President JD Vance commented on the ad.
Responding to the extensive media coverage, Sweeney admitted it felt surreal to be the subject of such high-profile reactions. She also noted the positive impact on American Eagle’s stock, which surged following the ad’s release.
Limited Engagement with Social Media
Sweeney revealed that she largely stayed away from social media during this period. “I kind of just put my phone away. I was filming every day,” she explained. The actress, committed to her work, described her schedule as involving 16-hour days, leaving little time for online distractions.
Upcoming Projects
Despite the controversy, Sweeney remains focused on her career. She stars in an upcoming film, Christy, a biography about female boxer Christy Martin that highlights issues of domestic violence. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in early September.
When questioned about the potential impact of the backlash on her projects, Sweeney expressed confidence. “If somebody is closed off because of something they read online, then I hope that something else can open their eyes,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of her film’s messages.
Sydney Sweeney continues to navigate her career with resilience amid internet scrutiny and industry challenges. Her dedication to portraying complex characters remains unwavering as she moves forward in the entertainment industry.
