Sydney Sweeney, star of Euphoria and Anyone But You, has issued a statement addressing the backlash to her American Eagle “Great Jeans” ad campaign. The controversy began in July when critics claimed the campaign’s wordplay — “great jeans” as a pun on “genes” — was racially charged. Accusations of promoting “genetic superiority” quickly spread among left-wing commentators, despite the campaign’s focus on denim fashion.
In a Friday interview with PEOPLE, Sweeney broke her silence: “Anyone who knows me knows that I’m always trying to bring people together. I’m against hate and divisiveness.” She admitted that her silence had “widened the divide,” though she reaffirmed that her intent was only to support a brand she liked.
The firestorm began when GQ interviewer Katherine Stoeffel challenged Sweeney over the campaign’s messaging, hinting that white actors shouldn’t “joke about genetic superiority.” Sweeney dismissed the question, stating simply, “I think that when I have an issue that I want to speak about, people will hear.” That brief rebuttal turned viral, with many praising her for refusing to pander to identity politics.
However, backlash grew. Actress Aimee Lou Wood, a co-star on The White Lotus, endorsed social media posts calling Sweeney a racist. Ruby Rose publicly called her a “cretin” and accused her of costing a film project she failed to land. Unconfirmed reports claimed Spider-Man actress Zendaya refused to appear in public with Sweeney over perceived political disagreements.
The media pressure eventually forced Sweeney to clarify her position. She told PEOPLE that she was “surprised by the reaction,” adding, “I did it because I love the jeans and love the brand. I don’t support the views some people chose to connect to the campaign.” She also rejected claims the campaign catered to the “male gaze,” saying such labels did not reflect her beliefs.
Despite the controversy, American Eagle stood by the campaign, stating it “was and always was about the jeans.” The ad reportedly drove strong sales, helping the company raise its holiday quarter forecast.
Sweeney concluded with a hopeful message, saying, “I hope this new year brings more focus on what connects us instead of what divides us.”
