Sydney Sweeney Clarifies Controversial American Eagle Jeans Ad

Sydney Sweeney has addressed the controversy surrounding her American Eagle jeans advertisement, which drew widespread attention across the U.S. The ad featured Sweeney wearing the brand’s jeans and stating she has “great jeans,” a pun on the word “genes.”

Critics argued the ad implied racial undertones, suggesting Sweeney, a white woman, has superior genes. Others viewed it as a playful marketing strategy focused on her appearance rather than ideology.

In an interview, Sweeney said, “I did a jean ad. I mean, the reaction definitely was a surprise, but I love jeans. All I wear are jeans. I’m literally in jeans and a T-shirt every day of my life.” She described former President Donald Trump’s social media post praising the ad as “surreal.”

The ad sparked discussion about eugenics, as Sweeney mentioned: “Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair color, personality and even eye color. My jeans are blue.”

American Eagle responded to the backlash, clarifying there was no racial component: “We’ll continue to celebrate how everyone wears their AE jeans with confidence, their way. Great jeans look good on everyone.”

Despite the debate, the advertisement boosted the company’s visibility, driving higher sales and stock gains, highlighting the commercial impact of controversial marketing campaigns.