Hollywood actor Sydney Sweeney has addressed the backlash over a recent American Eagle advert that sparked widespread criticism.
The 28-year-old, known for Euphoria and The Handmaid’s Tale, starred in an ad featuring the slogan: “Sydney Sweeney has great jeans.” Some viewers misinterpreted the wording, linking it to eugenics, and Sweeney faced significant online criticism.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Sweeney said she was “surprised by the reaction” and stressed that she does not support the views some connected to the campaign. “Many have assigned motives and labels to me that just aren’t true,” she said, adding that she opposes hate and divisiveness.
She also explained that remaining silent initially may have worsened the controversy. “I hope this new year brings more focus on what connects us instead of what divides us,” she said.
Despite the backlash, Sweeney’s career continues strongly. She is returning for the third season of Euphoria and will star in The Housemaid alongside Amanda Seyfried.
