Sydney Sweeney American Eagle ad returns after ‘good jeans’ campaign backlash

Sydney Sweeney fronts new American Eagle ad after debate over controversial ‘good jeans’ campaign

Sydney Sweeney has appeared in a new advertising campaign for American Eagle, months after her previous “good jeans” promotion prompted mixed reactions online.

The latest advert, released on Wednesday, features the actor wearing denim shorts in a series of beach-themed outfits. In the video, Sweeney asks, “What brand am I wearing?” before responding, “Yeah. That one.” The campaign is captioned “Syd for short,” referencing both her nickname and the focus on shorter denim styles.

 

 

 

 

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Online responses to the advert have varied. Some viewers expressed support, with one commenting: “Glad to see AE didn’t bend the knee to the haters. You look fabulous, Sydney!” Others referenced her wider visibility following recent campaigns.

The new release follows discussion surrounding Sweeney’s 2025 American Eagle campaign. In that advert, she said, “Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair color, personality and even eye color. My jeans are blue.” A voiceover added, “Sydney Sweeney has great jeans.”

The campaign drew criticism from some who interpreted the wording as referencing genetic superiority, while others argued it was intended as a play on words. Public figures also weighed in, including President Donald Trump, who wrote, “Sydney Sweeney, a registered Republican, has the ‘HOTTEST’ ad out there. It’s for American Eagle, and the jeans are ‘flying off the shelves,’. Go get ’em Sydney!”

Sweeney later addressed the reaction in interviews. “I mean, the reaction definitely was a surprise, but I love jeans. All I wear are jeans. I’m in jeans and a T-shirt every day of my life,” she said. She also stated, “I was honestly surprised by the reaction. I don’t support the views some people chose to connect to the campaign.”