Sydney Sweeney is choosing to remain focused on what truly matters amid ongoing debate over her recent American Eagle jeans campaign. The Euphoria actress, who faced mixed reactions from fans and critics alike, emphasized that she pays no mind to the backlash and centers her attention on those who genuinely know her. This approach helps her maintain balance during a turbulent period in her career.
Interview Highlights: Staying Focused on What Counts
During an interview with Extra’s Mona Kosar Abdi, the 28-year-old actress discussed how she handles public negativity while promoting her new biographical drama, Christy. The film features Sweeney as boxing legend Christy Martin, a role that demanded deep emotional investment.
You just know who you are,
Sweeney said when addressing how she deals with criticism.
And the people who matter — your friends and your family — they know who I am. And… to me, like, that’s what’s most important. Everything else is just noise… none of it’s real. And I’m just surrounded by really good people. And I love my job and I love my characters and I just stay focused.
— Sydney Sweeney, Actress
The Compelling Story Behind Portraying Christy Martin
Sydney shared what inspired her to take on the role of Christy Martin, a figure she initially knew little about.
Honestly, it was the fact that when I read the script, I didn’t know who she was,
she admitted.
And I was completely shocked that I had not heard of Christy Martin before. And I was like, ‘Everybody needs to know who she is, and everybody needs to know her story because it will save lives and it’s very important.’
— Sydney Sweeney, Actress
The story of Christy Martin is deeply harrowing. In 2010, the boxing champion survived a brutal attack by her husband and manager, James Martin, who stabbed and shot her. James later died in prison in 2024. The film portrays this traumatic chapter with actor Ben Foster playing the role of the abusive husband opposite Sweeney’s Martin.
Immersing Fully Into a Demanding Role
Portraying Christy Martin required Sydney Sweeney to fully commit to the character mentally, physically, and emotionally.
You have to completely hand yourself over to your character,
she explained.
You have to make sure that you are bringing every single piece of this person to life that you possibly can on a physical side, a mental side, an emotional side.
— Sydney Sweeney, Actress
Looking Ahead: Impact of Sydney Sweeney’s Latest Work
This portrayal marks a significant step for Sweeney beyond the recent jeans controversy, highlighting her dedication to challenging and meaningful roles. Her focus on authentic storytelling offers hope that audiences will recognize Christy Martin’s legacy and the personal strength behind it. Meanwhile, by tuning out the noise of social media criticism, Sweeney sets an example of resilience in the spotlight as she advances her acting career.
