Sydney Sweeney’s latest project, the Echo Valley thriller, has quickly become a standout on Apple TV+ since its June release. Produced by Ridley Scott and directed by Michael Pearce, the film features Julianne Moore as a horse trainer whose isolated life is disrupted when her daughter Claire, played by Sweeney, arrives bloodied and distressed. Despite earning only a 51% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, the film continues to rank high in viewership, holding the number three spot on Apple TV+’s global movie chart according to FlixPatrol.
Echo Valley outperforms several notable releases such as Wolfs and Greyhound while trailing just behind The Gorge, starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Miles Teller, and the John Krasinski/Natalie Portman film Fountain of Youth. The audience score on Rotten Tomatoes slightly exceeds the critics‘ rating at 52%, but it is Sweeney’s high profile and star power that have maintained strong interest and streaming numbers on the platform.
Recent Controversies Surrounding Sydney Sweeney
Sweeney’s rising profile extends beyond her streaming success, as she recently found herself amid public controversy. Last week, her American Eagle denim campaign drew criticism online due to its tagline highlighting her blonde hair and blue eyes, which some interpreted as having racial undertones connected to eugenics. The backlash came swiftly and sparked widespread debate across social media platforms.
Adding to the public focus on her personal life, it was revealed that Sweeney registered as a Republican in Florida in 2024. This news revived memories of a politically themed birthday party her family hosted in 2022, where red caps were prominently displayed. Former President Donald Trump publicly expressed support for Sweeney, stating he “loved” her after learning about her political affiliation.
Public Appearances and Future Endeavors
Despite the controversies, Sweeney has remained visibly active in the entertainment scene. She made her first public appearance since the backlash at the Americana premiere in Los Angeles, where she was photographed alongside co-stars Halsey and Simon Rex. Reports indicate she has continued social activities, including karaoke outings with Euphoria castmates, showing no signs of retreat from the spotlight.
Meanwhile, her momentum on Apple TV+ with Echo Valley remains strong across multiple regions. Looking ahead, Sweeney is preparing for the winter release of her next film, the psychological horror The Housemaid, which is anticipated to further bolster her career trajectory.
Key Roles and Cast Highlights
Echo Valley showcases a strong cast with Julianne Moore portraying Kate Garrett, Sydney Sweeney as Claire Garrett, Domhnall Gleeson in the role of Jackie, and Kyle MacLachlan playing Richard Garrett. Their performances contribute to the tension and emotional depth that drive the thriller‘s gripping narrative.
The Implications of Sweeney’s Continued Public Presence
The ongoing success of the Sydney Sweeney Echo Valley thriller on Apple TV+ despite critical ambivalence demonstrates the power of star appeal and streaming dynamics in today’s entertainment landscape. Controversy has not hindered her relevance, and with upcoming projects on the horizon, Sweeney’s influence within the industry is set to persist. For Apple TV+, her consistent drawing power ensures continued viewer engagement, highlighting how audience loyalty can sometimes outweigh critic skepticism in streaming success.
