In 2025, actor Sydney Sweeney has faced significant public scrutiny not only for unusual controversies like selling branded bathwater but also regarding her rapid rise in fame compared to co-star Alexa Demie. Fans and critics alike have questioned whether Sydney’s success in the entertainment industry eclipsed Alexa’s, despite both landing prominent roles in the HBO series Euphoria. This ongoing Sydney Sweeney career controversy has sparked many discussions about fairness and opportunity in Hollywood.
Social Media Theories on Different Career Trajectories After Euphoria
The conversation gained traction when social media creator Anna Bash shared her perspective on TikTok and Instagram, pondering why Alexa Demie did not achieve the same level of mainstream success as Sydney Sweeney after their breakout performances on Euphoria. Bash pointed out that while both actors received critical acclaim for their portrayals of high school characters—Alexa as Maddy Perez and Sydney as Cassie Howard—only Sydney seemed to secure a high-profile career beyond the show.
“It never really sat right with me why Alexa Demie didn’t blow up in the same way that Sydney Sweeney did,”
Anna said in her video.
“Something always felt a little off about it.”
Highlighting Alexa’s status as a breakout star who captivated audiences with her striking style and distinctive appearance, Bash noted that Alexa did not receive the film roles Sydney acquired, such as Sydney’s notable lead in Prime Video’s rom-com Anyone But You. Anna speculated that Sydney’s alignment with what she called the “male gaze” might have influenced why Hollywood put her forward more prominently.
The social media creator asserted,
“I feel like the wrong person was famous,”
and added,
“And they’re actually the gifted ones who have empathy.”
She suggested that sensitive, authentic artists like Alexa often don’t get the spotlight they deserve, while those perceived negatively gain more attention.
“And it’s like all the evil ones kind of go to the top.”
Fan Opinions Highlight Character Portrayals and Personal Choices
Several comments across platforms reflected similar frustrations with Sydney’s rise overshadowing Alexa’s career. Users cited character differences on Euphoria as a possible factor—some noting that Alexa’s role portrayed a strong woman, whereas Sydney’s character was seen as more vulnerable. One commenter stated,
“Alexa played a strong woman Sydney played a weak woman, society loves weak women.”
Others defended Alexa’s career choices, emphasizing her preference for privacy and dedication to her craft over celebrity.
“Alexa has stated in interviews that she loves acting and modeling, but does not care for the celebrity life,”
one supporter wrote.
“She’s very private and only wants to be known for her work.”
Some fans suggested Sydney’s willingness to embrace more commercial opportunities may have contributed to her higher profile, illustrated by remarks like,
“Sydney is selling her soul, Alexa could never.”
Mutual Respect Evident Between Sydney Sweeney and Alexa Demie
Despite online debates, both actors appear supportive of each other’s paths. They were photographed together while filming for the third season of Euphoria in April 2025, sparking excitement among fans about their on-screen dynamics. Sydney has publicly admired Alexa’s confidence and authenticity beyond their characters.
In a 2023 interview with People magazine, Sydney praised Alexa’s self-assurance, saying,
“I’m always so impressed by how confident Alexa is with whatever she’s wearing and however her makeup is,”
and added,
“I think that it really just shows how it comes from inside. She just rocks whatever she has going on… I’m always so captivated by that. I hope that I can kind of take a little bit of her confidence one day.”
Why This Controversy Matters and What Might Lie Ahead
The Sydney Sweeney career controversy sheds light on broader industry issues regarding how fame is distributed and the types of roles that translate into sustained success. It raises questions about the impact of media narratives, personal career choices, and societal preferences in shaping Hollywood trajectories. As both actresses continue with their careers—Alexa maintaining a low-profile focus on her work and Sydney expanding her commercial footprint—the debate exemplifies the complexities of fame in modern entertainment.
With Euphoria still an ongoing hit, future seasons and projects may offer more clarity on each star’s evolving path and audience reception. Fans and critics will likely continue to watch how Sydney and Alexa navigate their careers amid this high-profile discussion.
