American Eagle has issued a statement defending its “Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans” campaign, which sparked controversy online after being labeled as “tone-deaf” and accused of perpetuating racial undertones.
The company took to Instagram on Friday to clarify its intentions behind the ad, stating that the focus was solely on Sydney Sweeney’s jeans. The brand emphasized that people can wear AE jeans with confidence in their own way, regardless of their background.
Many users praised American Eagle for standing firm on its campaign, while others expressed disappointment and frustration with what they perceived as a lack of empathy for those who felt offended by the ad.
The controversy surrounding the campaign began after it was released featuring Sweeney walking towards an AE billboard with the phrase “Sydney Sweeney Has Great Genes” crossed out and replaced with “Jeans”. The term “great genes” has historically been associated with celebrating whiteness, thinness, and attractiveness.
Some users accused the brand of using this term as a form of propaganda, while others defended Sydney Sweeney’s intent to showcase her own individuality. American Eagle maintains that its campaign was never intended to be taken seriously and is simply about promoting confidence and self-expression through fashion.
The debate highlights the ongoing tension between brands wanting to stay relevant in the world of “woke” advertising and those who prefer to avoid being seen as tone-deaf or insensitive.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/american-eagle-fires-back-critics-after-sydney-sweeney-campaign-sparks-online-backlash