Actor Sydney Sweeney has publicly addressed the significant controversy that erupted last summer over an advertisement she filmed for American Eagle, stating she now has a different perspective on the situation.
The Controversial Campaign
In July, Sweeney, known for her blonde hair and blue eyes, starred in a campaign for the clothing brand titled "great jeans." One specific ad featured a play on words, comparing "jeans" to "genes." In the spot, Sweeney stated, "Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair color, personality and even eye color. My jeans are blue."
The wordplay was quickly criticized on social media. Many users argued the ad carried white supremacist undertones and could be seen as a nod to eugenics, a discredited and racist theory that advocates for improving human genetics through selective breeding.
Political Fallout and Initial Silence
The online backlash had an unexpected political dimension. Following the criticism, former President Donald Trump and members of his administration publicly praised Sweeney. Shortly after, it was revealed that the actor is a registered Republican.
For months, Sweeney followed her usual practice of not commenting on press, whether positive or negative. American Eagle defended the campaign at the time, asserting that "'Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans' is and always was about the jeans" and was meant to celebrate individual style.
A Change of Heart and a Public Response
In a recent interview with People magazine, Sweeney broke her silence. She expressed that she was "honestly surprised" by the public's reaction to the advertisement.
"I did it because I love the jeans and love the brand," she explained. "I don't support the views some people chose to connect to the campaign. Many have assigned motives and labels to me that just aren't true."
The actor emphasized her personal stance against division. "Anyone who knows me knows that I'm always trying to bring people together. I'm against hate and divisiveness," Sweeney added.
She revealed that her decision to finally speak came from a realization that her silence was counterproductive. "...Recently I have come to realize that my silence regarding this issue has only widened the divide, not closed it," Sweeney stated. "So I hope this new year brings more focus on what connects us instead of what divides us."
