Trent Sweeney, the brother of actress Sydney Sweeney, celebrated his promotion to staff sergeant in the U.S. Air Force with a playful nod to his sister’s recent advertising controversy. Posting his promotion certificate on Instagram, Trent captioned the image, “It’s them good jeans,” a tongue-in-cheek reference to Sydney’s American Eagle campaign that used the phrase as a play on words between denim “jeans” and hereditary “genes.”
The American Eagle ad sparked backlash earlier this year, with critics claiming the marketing carried undertones of eugenics due to its phrasing and imagery. Supporters of the campaign argued it was intended to highlight fashion and self-expression, not promote any political or social agenda. Despite the criticism, Sydney stood by the brand, and Trent’s public show of humor suggests he is standing by his sister as well.
Sydney acknowledged her brother’s post by liking it on Instagram, a gesture seen by many fans as a sign of family solidarity. The Sweeney family, originally from Idaho, has largely avoided public controversy until Sydney’s high-profile acting career and recent endorsement deals drew national attention.
While the ad campaign remains divisive, Trent’s ability to celebrate his accomplishment while lightheartedly addressing controversy reflects resilience and perspective amid media scrutiny.
