Hollywood actress Sydney Sweeney has addressed the backlash she faced following her appearance in an American Eagle jeans advertisement, acknowledging that her silence may have “widened the divide” surrounding the controversy. The advertisement, launched under the motto “Great Jeans,” ignited discussions about race due to its play on words with “jeans” and “genes,” which some critics associated with eugenics—a historically discredited theory of selective breeding.
In her remarks to People magazine, Sweeney expressed surprise at the public reaction, stating, “I did it because I love the jeans and love the brand.” She emphasized that she does not endorse the interpretations others have attached to the campaign and affirmed her commitment to unity, saying, “Anyone who knows me knows that I’m always trying to bring people together. I’m against hate and divisiveness.”
Historically, Sweeney has chosen to refrain from addressing both positive and negative press. However, she now recognizes that her silence on this matter might have contributed to further misunderstanding rather than alleviating it. “So I hope this new year brings more focus on what connects us instead of what divides us,” she stated.
The controversy peaked in November when Sweeney, during an interview with GQ, remarked, “I think that when I have an issue that I want to speak about, people will hear.” She reiterated her love for jeans, saying, “I did a jean ad. I mean, the reaction definitely was a surprise, but I love jeans. All I wear are jeans. I’m literally in jeans and a T-shirt every day of my life.”
The advertisement featured Sweeney stating, “Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair colour, personality and even eye colour. My jeans are blue.” In response to the backlash, American Eagle clarified their stance through an Instagram post, emphasizing that the campaign was solely about the jeans and celebrating personal expression in wearing them.
Sweeney, who gained fame from her role in HBO’s hit series “Euphoria,” is also promoting her new film “The Housemaid,” which is based on Freida McFadden’s bestselling novel from 2022, and co-stars Amanda Seyfried. As she navigates this challenging experience, Sweeney remains focused on her passion for acting and the message of unity she hopes to convey moving forward.
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