Sydney Sweeney Speaks Out Against Hate and Reflects on Speaking Up About American Eagle Jeans Controversy: 'Remaining Silent Has Only Increased the Divide'

Sydney Sweeney recently shared with People magazine that she stands firmly against hate as she revisited the online uproar over her American Eagle jeans campaign earlier this year. The advertisement, which featured the phrase Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans, sparked controversy due to its pun on great genes. Critics on social media accused the brand of celebrating the actors white heritage and slim figure, with some even likening the campaign to Nazi propaganda.

I was genuinely taken aback by the backlash, Sweeney explained. I participated because I genuinely like the jeans and admire the brand. I dont endorse the interpretations some people attached to the campaign. Many have attributed intentions and labels to me that simply arent accurate.

She emphasized her commitment to unity: Anyone who knows me understands that I aim to bring people together. I oppose hate and division. Previously, I avoided commenting on any press, positive or negative, but Ive realized that staying silent about this matter only deepened the gap instead of bridging it. I hope the upcoming year encourages more focus on what unites us rather than what separates us.

Sweeney remained quiet for several months before discussing the incident in an interview with GQ last month. She said she never considered issuing an official statement defending the ad, explaining, Ive always felt its not my role to dictate how people think.

I know who I am, what I value, and that I am a kind person, Sweeney continued. I love a lot of things and look forward to what comes next. I dont let others define me. Ultimately, the ad was simply about jeansit didnt affect me personally.

The campaign even drew attention from political figures. White House communications manager Steven Cheung described the controversy as an example of cancel culture run amok, and Vice President JD Vance mocked liberals for reacting strongly. Former President Donald Trump commented on the ad after learning of Sweeneys Republican affiliation: Shes a registered Republican? Oh, now I love her ad! Youd be surprised how many people are Republicans If Sydney Sweeney is a registered Republican, I think her ad is fantastic!

Sweeney described the political reactions as surreal but admitted she largely ignored the media storm. I just put my phone aside, she said. Filming Euphoria keeps me busy with 16-hour days. I focus on work and then go home to rest, so I wasnt closely following the coverage.

Sweeney will next appear in The Housemaid, set to release in theaters on December 19.

Author: Logan Reeves