Sydney Sweeney Expresses Opposition to Hate After American Eagle Ad Controversy

Months after her American Eagle advertisement sparked public criticism, Sydney Sweeney is addressing the controversy surrounding the campaign. The two-time Emmy nominee admitted she was surprised by the reaction to her Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans promotion, which faced backlash in July for its wordplay using jeans as a pun on genes, leading to accusations of subtle racism.

I participated because I genuinely love the jeans and the brand, Sweeney told People. I do not share the views that some interpreted from the campaign. Many have attributed intentions and labels to me that are simply not accurate.

She emphasized her commitment to positivity and unity, clarifying her position after a recent interview question about the campaign went viral. Those who know me understand that I aim to bring people together. I oppose hate and division. Previously, I avoided responding to both negative and positive press, but I now realize that staying silent only deepened divisions rather than closing them, Sweeney said. I hope the coming year encourages focusing on what unites us rather than what separates us.

The ad, which recalled Brooke Shields iconic 1980 Calvin Klein jeans campaign, prompted American Eagle to release a statement emphasizing that the focus of the promotion is and always was about the jeans. Former President Donald Trump also commented positively, stating, If Sydney Sweeney is a registered Republican, I think her ad is fantastic.

Author: Gavin Porter