Sydney Sweeney Jeans Ad Sparks Debate as AE Fires Back
Hi, I’m Riley Carter. Another viral moment, huh.
American Eagle says it has shrugged off the wave of online criticism over its new jeans ad starring Sydney Sweeney by citing independent polling that shows a 71 percent approval rate. The brand insists that the buzz, both good and bad, demonstrates strong engagement and dismisses suggestions that the commercial dabbles in Nazi-like eugenics messaging. Fans and critics alike have chimed in, but American Eagle remains confident in its campaign results.
The ad spot opens on Sydney Sweeney as she buttons up a pair of mid-rise blue jeans, then transitions to her speaking directly to the camera. In a whispery voiceover, she explains that genes determine traits such as hair color, personality, even eye color. With trademark deadpan charm, she concludes, “My jeans are blue.” The playful setup was meant to highlight product quality, not ideology, according to the brand.
Despite the lighthearted intention, the commercial quickly became a target for social media outrage. Viewers on TikTok and Twitter accused the spot of reinforcing a blonde hair, blue eyed beauty ideal with troubling overtones. Critics argued that focusing on inherited traits veers into territory reminiscent of eugenic propaganda, even if that was not the official goal of the campaign.
Celebrities and commentators joined the fray. Singer Doja Cat posted a TikTok parody in which she adopts an exaggerated rural accent to mimic Sydney’s delivery. Meanwhile, on TMZ Live, political commentator Michael Knowles weighed in by suggesting that the Euphoria star’s white beauty status played a role in the backlash. These celebrity reactions helped the debate catch fire and reach an even wider audience.
American Eagle’s representative told TMZ that the negative reaction represents only a vocal minority. “This is another example of how social media is not reflective of real life,” the spokesperson said. “The absurd response from some corners of the internet is absolutely not reflective of how American Eagle’s customers feel. The campaign has generated tremendous buzz, and we are pleased that most people find the spot appealing.”
On a more serious note, the brand also revealed that a portion of sales from the Sydney Sweeney jeans line will benefit organizations focused on domestic violence prevention. American Eagle framed the initiative as an effort to support community empowerment and social good. The company hopes that redirecting attention to this charitable component will remind critics of the campaign’s broader intention.
Marketing experts note that modern brands often walk a fine line when combining celebrity influence, clever copywriting, and cause marketing. A memorable tagline can translate to strong engagement, but misinterpretation can ignite controversy just as quickly. American Eagle’s leadership appears willing to accept short-term criticism in exchange for long-term brand loyalty and philanthropic impact.
Anyway, that is the situation. Decide for yourself if those jeans are really just blue.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and TMZ
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
