Even Donald Trump can’t bail out Sydney Sweeney this time, after Hollywood sign stunt

Sydney Sweeney is facing a storm of legal trouble after a controversial stunt at the Hollywood sign, and even President Donald Trump cannot intervene. The Euphoria actress, 28, recently filmed herself climbing the landmark and tossing bras from her new lingerie line across the iconic letters. While she secured a filming permit from FilmLA, it only authorised nearby filming, not climbing or handling the sign itself. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, which manages the landmark, confirmed they had no knowledge of the stunt and are now investigating how Sweeney’s team gained access.

Legal analyst Chad D. Cummings told The Irish Star that Sweeney could face multiple charges, including trespass, vandalism, and civil liability. “The presidential pardon power reaches only federal crimes. Local prosecutors decide state charges,” he explained. “A filming permit does not grant access to the sign. Each violation carries fines, repair costs, and potentially multiple misdemeanour counts. Restitution may follow any finding of damage. This could become an extremely costly stunt, far beyond any publicity value.”

Cummings also emphasised why Trump would be powerless in this scenario. “Even federal charges would not cover city code violations, private claims, or civil injunctions. A presidential pardon cannot stop restitution or court orders. Trump cannot save Sydney Sweeney this time,” he added, highlighting the limits of fame and political connections against state and local law.

After the stunt, Sweeney reportedly removed most of the bras, leaving only a handful behind. The stunt quickly sparked online debate, with fans praising her daring marketing move and critics condemning the recklessness. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce issued a statement confirming that Sweeney’s company could only film the sign with prior approval, which had not been granted for the stunt itself.

Sweeney’s representatives have not yet responded to requests for comment. Meanwhile, legal experts warn that civil risk could exceed criminal risk, as property managers and insurers may pursue compensation for cleanup and monitoring costs, and sponsors could demand indemnity under moral clauses. The stunt, intended to promote her lingerie brand, could instead leave Sweeney facing a legal and financial backlash that no celebrity status or political connection can undo.