The rising star’s Sydney Sweeney Republican ties and viral ad campaign have pushed her into a firestorm of controversy—with critics warning it could damage her career.
A Risky Turn for a Rising Star
August 5, 2025: Sydney Sweeney, best known for her roles in Euphoria and Anyone But You, has recently found herself at the center of an unexpected political storm. What started as a seemingly innocent denim campaign for American Eagle has now spiraled into a viral controversy—potentially threatening the actress’s Hollywood future.
The ad featured Sweeney in a patriotic-themed campaign with the line “It’s in our jeans,” a pun on “genes” that, when paired with her blond, blue-eyed appearance, drew sharp criticism for allegedly playing into white supremacist undertones. While the brand may not have intended this, the online response was swift—and severe.
Trump’s Endorsement Adds Fuel to the Fire
The situation escalated further when Donald Trump praised the ad, calling it “the hottest commercial I’ve ever seen.” He used the moment to take jabs at pop icon Taylor Swift, saying, “She’s no longer hot,” while positioning Sweeney as a new cultural symbol for conservative America.
Adding to the controversy, Sweeney’s political affiliation—recently revealed through public records—shows she is registered as a Republican voter in Florida, which has only intensified the divide among fans and critics alike.
Why This Moment Could Be Career-Defining
PR experts and industry analysts are warning that this could mark a turning point in Sweeney’s career. While many celebrities survive political backlash, Sweeney is still building her brand—and may not have the same immunity as more established stars like Swift or Margot Robbie.
“She hasn’t yet defined herself in the public eye beyond her image,” said one expert. “When a celebrity becomes a political symbol—especially early in their career—it can limit opportunities and create long-term brand risk.”
A Culture War in a Pair of Jeans
The American Eagle campaign, intentionally or not, became a flashpoint in the cultural battle between progressive and conservative values. Critics accused the ad of promoting exclusionary ideals, while conservative voices rallied around Sweeney as a new icon.
This isn’t the first time a brand has been caught in the political crossfire, but what makes this unique is Sweeney’s role as both celebrity and perceived symbol—without issuing any political statement herself.
What’s at Stake for Sweeney
Brand Deals: Future partnerships may hesitate if they fear political blowback.
Film Opportunities: Casting directors might think twice before aligning their projects with a divisive public figure.
Public Image: Remaining silent may allow others to control the narrative, a dangerous move in today’s media landscape.
Whether intentional or not, Sydney Sweeney now finds herself pulled into America’s culture wars. In a polarized media environment, where silence can be misread and affiliations can become headlines, her next move will be critical.
This moment could either solidify her status as a fearless, unapologetic star—or mark the beginning of a difficult chapter in her Hollywood journey.
Published by HOLR Magazine