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Sydney Sweeney Denounces Hate, Says Silence ‘Widened the Divide’ in American Eagle Ad Furor

Her People interview offers a clearer stance after months of backlash linking the “jeans/genes” campaign to eugenics.

Overview

  • Sweeney told People she did the ad because she loves the brand and does not support the views others attached to it.
  • The July spot includes the line contrasting heredity and clothing: “Genes are passed down … My jeans are blue.”
  • American Eagle reiterated the campaign “is and always was about the jeans,” emphasizing it was about her story and how everyone wears AE with confidence.
  • Her earlier GQ remark — “I did a jean ad” — drew renewed criticism, leading to this more direct response during promotion for The Housemaid.
  • The controversy attracted national political commentary, and reporting has cited strong sales and a notable share jump for American Eagle.