American Eagle Faces Backlash Over Sydney Sweeney Ad: Critics Slam 'Genetic Lottery' Messaging
American Eagle Under Fire for 'Good Genes' Ad Featuring Sydney Sweeney
American Eagle, one of America’s most prominent youth fashion retailers, has come under intense scrutiny after releasing an ad campaign featuring Euphoria actress Sydney Sweeney. The backlash stems from a controversial promotional video that critics say upholds outdated beauty ideals and sends problematic messages about genetics and identity.
In the now-viral ad promoting the brand’s denim line, Sydney Sweeney is shown zipping up a pair of jeans while narrating, “Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair color, personality, and even eye color.” She then smiles into the camera and quips, “My jeans are blue.” The narrator finishes the clip with the punchline: “Sydney Sweeney has great jeans.”
Although intended as a playful pun, the ad struck a nerve online. While some praised the ad’s clever wordplay, many others criticized it for glorifying what they interpret as white-centric beauty standards — particularly with Sweeney’s blonde hair and blue eyes.
'Good Genes' or Problematic Messaging?
Social media erupted almost immediately after the ad aired, with accusations ranging from tone-deaf marketing to veiled eugenics. One viral comment stated, “Saying that a blonde-haired, blue-eyed girl has ‘good genes’ is Nazi s—t.” Others called the ad a thinly veiled celebration of white genetics, arguing that it subtly equates beauty with whiteness — a dangerous message in an era of growing awareness about representation and inclusion.
Critics also took issue with the ad’s presentation, describing it as unnecessarily suggestive and tailored to the male gaze. Some pointed out that Sweeney, already a symbol of Western beauty ideals, being positioned as the face of “great genes” was especially troubling.
The controversy also triggered discussion over celebrity influence and responsibility. While it remains unclear how much creative input Sydney Sweeney had in the campaign, her involvement added fuel to the cultural conversation.
Celebrities Join the Conversation
As the discourse intensified, several celebrities and influencers joined the backlash with satire and commentary. Singer Lizzo posted a doctored image of herself wearing American Eagle jeans with the caption: “My jeans are black…” — a bold reframe that highlighted the racial dynamics at play.
Doja Cat also jumped into the debate, uploading a TikTok parody mimicking Sweeney’s tone and lines with pointed sarcasm. The video quickly gained millions of views, further amplifying public discontent.
American Eagle Issues a Response
After days of silence amid escalating criticism, American Eagle finally issued a statement via Instagram:
“‘Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans’ is and always was about the jeans. Her jeans. Her story. We’ll continue to celebrate how everyone wears their AE jeans with confidence, their way. Great jeans look good on everyone.”
However, the statement failed to quell the backlash. Many users interpreted it as a non-apology, with one commenter writing, “So her ‘jeans’ determine ‘eye color and personality’? Make it make sense.” Another noted, “It’s giving ‘I’m sorry you feel that way.’”
Despite the criticism, a portion of the online community defended the brand, suggesting that the outrage was overblown and that not every ad needs to be hyper-analyzed. They argued that the controversy may reflect more about online culture than the actual content of the ad.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
The American Eagle controversy highlights the razor-thin line between clever marketing and cultural insensitivity in the social media age. What was meant to be a witty pun about jeans has sparked a deeper debate about representation, whiteness, and the coded language of beauty. In a world where brands are increasingly expected to show cultural awareness and inclusivity, American Eagle’s misstep serves as yet another reminder: Intent does not erase impact.
Whether this incident will significantly affect the brand’s image remains to be seen — but one thing is certain: audiences are more vocal, and less forgiving, than ever before.