Gavin Casalegno’s Dunkin ad draws heat after Sydney Sweeney ‘genetics’ controversy

Dunkin’ is facing unexpected backlash after launching a new ad featuring actor Gavin Casalegno to promote its Golden Hour Refresher.

The 35-second video, posted on July 29, includes a line referencing “genetics” that sparked criticism online, especially following Sydney Sweeney’s recent American Eagle ad controversy.

In the clip, Casalegno, known for “The Summer I Turned Pretty,” says, “This tan? Genetics,” while lounging poolside. He continues, “Every time I drink a Golden Hour Refresher, it’s like the sun just finds me.”

The controversy comes just days after Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle denim campaign went viral for its tagline, “Sydney Sweeney has great jeans,” which critics argue implies genetic superiority due to her blonde hair and blue eyes.

Neither Dunkin’ nor Casalegno’s representatives have responded to the backlash. Some consumers are already choosing to boycott the brand, with comments like, “Skipping my Dunkin’ today,” and “I’ll go to Starbucks instead.”

The situation reflects growing consumer sensitivity to language used in marketing campaigns — particularly when it touches on genetics, race, and representation.

Whether intended or not, Dunkin’s lighthearted tone has collided with a broader cultural conversation — one still unfolding in the comments.