Actor Sydney Sweeney has publicly addressed the controversy surrounding her American Eagle advertisement, ending months of speculation and criticism linked to the campaign.
Speaking to People magazine in an interview published Friday, the 28-year-old “Euphoria” star said she regrets not responding earlier to the backlash over the ad, which was launched in July.
“I’m against hate and divisiveness,” Sweeney said. “I’ve usually chosen not to react to either negative or positive press, but I’ve realized my silence on this issue has only widened the divide.”
The actor expressed hope that the coming year will bring “more focus on what connects us instead of what divides us.”
Background on the Controversial Ad
American Eagle’s campaign, titled “Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans,” featured the actor in a playful video where she referenced “genes” and “jeans” while zipping up a pair of denim pants atop a car. Although intended as a lighthearted pun, the ad drew intense backlash online. Critics accused the brand of echoing themes associated with eugenics and white supremacy — claims both Sweeney and the company strongly deny.
Sweeney said she was taken aback by the reaction.
“I did it because I love the jeans and the brand,” she said. “I don’t support the views people tried to attach to the campaign. Many have assigned motives and labels to me that simply aren’t true.”
American Eagle defended the campaign at the time, emphasizing that the ad was “always about jeans” and celebrating individual confidence and style.
Previous Response Sparked Further Debate
Sweeney’s earlier comments in a GQ cover story last month were widely circulated after she appeared hesitant to discuss the controversy, prompting further criticism. During that interview, she acknowledged being surprised by the reaction but offered little elaboration.
The journalist also noted that former President Donald Trump had praised the ad on social media. Responding briefly, Sweeney called the moment “surreal,” but declined to address the wider backlash.
Sweeney Plans a New Approach
Reflecting on the past year, Sweeney told People she wants to be more intentional about sharing her true self with the public.
“I’ve tried to be strong, but it’s been really hard at times,” she said. “This next year, I want to show people who I really am and what I stand for.”
Representatives for Sweeney and American Eagle did not immediately respond to requests for further comment.
