Sharon Stone has publicly supported Sydney Sweeney following renewed criticism related to the actress’s American Eagle advertisement campaign. At Variety’s Power of Women Los Angeles event on October 29, Stone and Sweeney addressed the ongoing debate about the campaign known as the “Sydney Sweeney jeans controversy,” highlighting issues of confidence and public perception.
Stone attended the ceremony to honor Sweeney and present her with an award, celebrating the actress’s achievements as they continue working together on the third season of the HBO series Euphoria. The campaign, which launched in July, featured Sweeney with the slogan “Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans,” a pun on the phrase “great genes.” This ad drew negative attention, as critics interpreted it as emphasizing Sweeney’s white heritage and physical appearance, sparking discussions about the implications of its messaging.
Exploring the Roots of the Advertising Debate and Public Reaction
The American Eagle campaign quickly became a flashpoint on social media, with many viewers questioning the choice of wording and the implicit focus on Sweeney’s looks and background. While some defended it as a clever marketing move, others viewed it as tone-deaf or exclusionary. Amid these reactions, Stone stepped in to encourage embracing one’s natural beauty and self-assurance.
Speaking to Variety’s senior entertainment reporter Angelique Jackson, Stone offered her perspective, saying,
“It’s okay to use what mama gave you. It’s really fine.”
She further explained,
“It’s hard to be hot, and I think we all know that. It’s really okay to use every bit of hotness you have — right here, right now — and go for whatever that is. Everybody has their own certain kind of hotness, their own certain thing, and you’re supposed to go for that. Because who are you not to be beautiful? You know, who you are isn’t an accident.”
— Sharon Stone, Actress
Behind the Scenes: Stone and Sweeney’s Collaboration Amid Criticism
Stone also shared insights from her conversations with Sweeney during the filming of Euphoria’s latest season. She noted how Sweeney remained focused on her craft and maintained grace despite the external pressures. This approach emphasizes the strength and professionalism both actresses bring to their shared project, reinforcing their mutual respect and partnership.
Implications for Celebrity Image and Public Conversations Around Beauty
The exchange between Stone and Sweeney highlights ongoing challenges celebrities face in managing public perception, especially regarding appearance and identity in advertising. This incident reflects broader conversations about representation, marketing strategies, and societal standards of beauty. As Euphoria’s production progresses and the dialogue continues, both actresses remain prominent voices in navigating fame with authenticity.
