Zendaya distances herself from Sydney Sweeney after ad backlash

Zendaya is reportedly keeping her distance from Sydney Sweeney after backlash over her American Eagle ad

Zendaya is reportedly distancing herself from Euphoria co-star Sydney Sweeney following backlash over Sweeney’s controversial American Eagle advertisement.

The campaign, which featured the tagline “Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans,” was condemned online for allegedly promoting white supremacy and insensitive messaging.

According to insiders who spoke with Daily Mail, Zendaya has intentionally kept her distance from Sweeney since the controversy erupted. The two actresses have not appeared together in recent interviews or joint photo shoots for the upcoming third season of Euphoria, set to premiere in spring 2026.

“It’s a difficult position for Zendaya to be in,” a source claimed, suggesting that standing beside Sweeney publicly might be viewed as excusing her co-star’s actions and political affiliations. Reports have long circulated that Sweeney is a registered Republican, though she has not publicly confirmed this.

Former President Donald Trump defended the 28-year-old actress, praising the campaign on Truth Social and calling it the “HOTTEST ad.” His support appeared to deepen the divide, especially since Zendaya has previously voiced her disapproval of Trump’s re-election, writing that she felt “petrified and heartbroken” about the outcome.

American Eagle has stood by its campaign, issuing a statement clarifying that the ad was meant to celebrate Sweeney’s “jeans” as a metaphor for individuality and confidence. However, the explanation did little to calm public outrage.

With Euphoria season 3 approaching, speculation continues over whether the alleged rift between Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney will affect their on-screen chemistry or future collaborations.