Sydney Sweeney is continuing her collaboration with American Eagle months after the brand’s denim campaign sparked intense online debate. Sweeney came under widespread scrutiny following the release of American Eagle’s July 23 denim campaign titled “Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans.” The ad quickly ignited conversation across social media, with critics arguing that the wordplay between “jeans” and “genes” was racially charged and suggested genetic superiority.
Sydney Sweeney continues American Eagle partnership despite backlash
Speaking to People, Sweeney said the backlash caught her off guard. She explained that her decision to participate stemmed from a genuine appreciation for the product and the brand—not from any hidden message viewers may have inferred. “I was honestly surprised by the reaction,” she said. “I did it because I love the jeans and love the brand. I don’t support the views some people chose to connect to the campaign.”
Soon after the ad launched, American Eagle addressed the online debate, defending the campaign on social media. In an August 1 Instagram post, the brand wrote that “‘Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans’ is and always was about the jeans. Her jeans, her story,” adding that it would continue celebrating how people wear AE denim with confidence, their own way.
Sweeney later told PEOPLE that she “leads with kindness” and said she chose to speak out about the backlash to clarify her position and push back against negativity. The Sydney Jacket worn by Sweeney reportedly sold out within one day. Meanwhile, the Sydney Jean, her custom Dreamy Drape style, sold out in a week. The brand noted that 100% of proceeds from the jeans benefited the Crisis Text Line.
“Anyone who knows me knows that I’m always trying to bring people together,” she told People. “I’m against hate and divisiveness. I lead with kindness, and I hope this new year brings more focus on what connects us instead of what divides us.”
The actress first touched on the controversy earlier in an interview with GQ for its Men of the Year issue, published Nov. 4. “I did a jean ad,” she said. “The reaction definitely was a surprise, but I love jeans. All I wear are jeans.”
