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American Eagle Under Fire for Sydney Sweeney's 'Great Jeans' Campaign

Sydney Sweeney and American Eagle released a 'Great Jeans' ad in July 2025 that sparked backlash over racial and eugenics connotations online.
The controversy arose because the ad's pun on 'genes' and focus on Sweeney's blonde hair and blue eyes echoed historic white supremacy themes.
The campaign included a jean line designed by Sweeney, with proceeds benefiting the domestic violence support group Crisis Text Line.
Advertising expert Robin Landa warned the pun is tone-deaf and risks normalizing exclusionary beliefs, while American Eagle's stock rose nearly 17% since the ad's debut.
The ad intensified debates on racism and eugenics, though some defended Sweeney and called the backlash an overreaction; American Eagle stood by the campaign.

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ABC Australia

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Why an ad about Sydney Sweeney's 'great jeans' is facing a backlash

Actor Sydney Sweeney's "good jeans" advertisement has sparked a debate about beauty standards and race.

1 hour ago·Australia

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E! News

Center

American Eagle Breaks Silence on Controversial Sydney Sweeney Jeans Ad

After American Eagle faced a slew of backlash for a controversial ad campaign starring Sydney Sweeney, praising her “good jeans,” the clothing company has responded.

2 hours ago·United States

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Toronto Sun

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WARMINGTON: No Sydney Sweeney 'genes' controversy at GTA American Eagle outlet

No matter what social media might say there were no Nazi’s in this store inside the Toronto Premium Outlets Wednesday. We checked.

2 hours ago·Toronto, Canada

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WTAE

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Center

What to know about reactions to the American Eagle 'good jeans' ads

Sydney Sweeney fronts American Eagle's bold denim campaign, stirring conversations on beauty, diversity, and cultural implications with its edgy "great jeans" message.

4 hours ago·Pittsburgh, United States

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Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Center

Pittsburgh-based American Eagle stirs up controversy in Sydney Sweeney ad campaign

American Eagle’s latest ad campaign featuring A-list actress Sydney Sweeney has sparked a firestorm of political discourse. Last Wednesday, the South...

6 hours ago·Pittsburgh, United States

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Associated Press News

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Lean Left

American Eagle's 'good jeans' ads with Sydney Sweeney spark a debate on race and beauty standards

U.S. fashion retailer American Eagle Outfitters wanted to make a splash with its new advertising campaign starring 27-year-old actor Sydney Sweeney. It has.

6 hours ago·United States

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