Why new Sydney Sweeney ad campaign is sparking backlash

EntertainmentLifestyle
29 Jul 2025 • 1:23 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Sydney Sweeney's new American Eagle denim campaign has drawn criticism for its tagline, 'Sydney Sweeney Has Great Genes/Jeans', which some found problematic due to its association with eugenics and the ad's perceived lack of diversity.
  • Social media users expressed concern that the campaign, featuring a blonde, white woman, inadvertently promoted ideas of 'good genes' and white supremacy.
  • A significant, yet largely overlooked, element of the campaign is that all proceeds from 'The Sydney Jean' are donated to Crisis Text Line, a non-profit that offers confidential mental health support to anyone 24/7.
  • Many observers noted that the charitable purpose of the campaign was not clearly communicated in the advertisements, leading to public misunderstanding.
  • American Eagle invested heavily in this campaign, aiming to boost sales ahead of the back-to-school season amidst economic pressures and recent operating losses.

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