Sydney Sweeney is facing increasing criticism following controversial comments made during a recent interview, sparking a wave of negative reactions from fellow celebrities. This growing backlash centers around her handling of prior disputes connected to her American Eagle campaign earlier this year.
Controversy Ignited by Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle Campaign
In the beginning of the year, Sydney Sweeney partnered with American Eagle for a jeans campaign that drew significant discomfort and criticism. The advertisement played on the double meaning of “jeans” and “genes,” with many viewers troubled by the implications, particularly given Sweeney’s identity as a white blonde woman.
Confusing Interview Responses Amplify Backlash
Last week, Sydney Sweeney participated in an interview with GQ where she was questioned about the backlash caused by the American Eagle ad. Instead of clarifying her stance or distancing herself from the controversy, her dismissive answers only intensified public confusion and frustration over her perspectives.
White people shouldn’t joke about genetic superiority; that was like the conversation. Since we’re talking about this, I just wanted to give you an opportunity to talk about that situation specifically,
the interviewer said.
I think that when I have an issue that I want to speak about, people will hear,
Sydney Sweeney replied.
Colleagues Publicly Distance Themselves from Sweeney
The fallout from the interview has led to notable actors distancing themselves from Sweeney, particularly within the cast of the hit series Euphoria. Zendaya, who stars alongside Sweeney, reportedly refuses to participate in joint press events due to the controversy, underscoring the seriousness of the divide.
It’s a difficult position for Zendaya to be in. Because if she even stands next to Sydney on the red carpet, it can be read as her excusing Sydney’s views on Trump and her refusal to apologise for the racist ad,
a source told the Daily Mail.
Furthermore, actress Aimee Lee Wood expressed her disapproval by posting a throwing up emoji under the GQ interview clip and liking a video by content creator Jupiter Baal, which sharply criticized Sweeney’s conduct. Musician SZA also showed support for this critique by liking the same post.
Ruby Rose Issues Harsh Criticism Over Role Loss
Adding to the mounting backlash, Ruby Rose, known for her role as Stella in Orange is the New Black, openly condemned Sydney Sweeney through a lengthy Instagram post. Rose, who had auditioned for the role of Christy—a part ultimately given to Sweeney—was particularly scathing in her remarks.
You’re a cretin and you ruined the film. Period. Christy deserved better,
Ruby Rose wrote.
This sharp rebuke comes at a time when Sweeney’s box office track record is under scrutiny, with Christy set to become her third major flop this year.
Wider Implications for Sydney Sweeney’s Career
The rising backlash from peers and the public alike highlights the precarious position Sydney Sweeney now faces within the entertainment industry. Celebrity disapproval, especially within her own professional circles, could impact her future roles and public image. How she addresses and manages this controversy may influence whether she can recover from the current storm or if her public standing will continue to decline.
