Sydney Sweeney Dodges Responsibility for American Eagle ‘Good Genes’ Ad Backlash

Sydney Sweeney has again sidestepped questions about the controversial American Eagle advertising campaign. The actress was pressed on the issue during a recent interview with The Guardian. The ad sparked significant online criticism earlier this year.

Many found the ad’s wordplay on “good jeans” and “good genes” to be racially insensitive. Others argued the campaign was overly sexualized. Sweeney did not address the backlash at the time it occurred.

Actress Claims Public Perception is Uncontrollable

Sweeney argued she has no control over how people interpret her actions. She stated that people will always view her through their own personal lenses. This mirrors her previous comments to GQ on the matter.

She told the publication she was largely unaware of the initial uproar. The Euphoria star was deeply focused on filming the show’s new season. She said she often puts her phone away while working long hours on set.

The response highlights the challenge celebrities face with controversial endorsements. Public relations experts note that such deflections can sometimes prolong a story. According to Reuters, brand partnerships are a major income source for many actors.

Controversy Overshadows New Film Release

The renewed discussion comes as Sweeney promotes her new film, Christy. The movie explores the life of boxer Christy Martin. Unfortunately, the project is struggling at the box office.

Box Office Mojo reports the film had one of the worst wide-release openings ever. It earned a dismal $1.3 million during its debut weekend. The commercial performance places it among the top 12 worst openings for a film on over 2,000 screens.

This creates a difficult period for the actress, balancing professional setbacks with persistent PR issues. The focus on the old ad controversy may be diverting attention from her current work. The situation shows how past commercial decisions can continue to impact a star’s public narrative.

The ongoing questions about the American Eagle ‘good genes’ ad continue to follow Sydney Sweeney. Her repeated deflection suggests a strategic avoidance of direct accountability. This controversy remains a notable part of her public profile.

Thought you’d like to know-

What was the American Eagle ad controversy about?

The ad used a pun on “good genes” and “good jeans.” Critics called it racially charged for highlighting blue eyes and whiteness. Others felt the ad’s imagery was unnecessarily sexualized.

How did Sydney Sweeney initially respond to the backlash?

She told GQ magazine she was unaware of the controversy as she was filming. Sweeney explained she works long hours and often keeps her phone away from set. She described the situation as “surreal” at the time.

What is Sydney Sweeney’s new movie about?

Her new film, *Christy*, is a biopic about boxer Christy Martin. It follows the fighter’s personal and professional life. The movie was released to very poor box office results.

How well did her new film perform commercially?

The film had a very weak opening, earning just $1.3 million. This places it among the worst-performing wide releases in recent history. The data was confirmed by Box Office Mojo.

Why does Sweeney keep getting asked about the ad?

The ad created a significant public relations incident for the star. Journalists often revisit past controversies during new promotional cycles. Her continued avoidance of the topic likely perpetuates the media’s interest.