Who is the actress in the American Eagle advert?
The actress in the American Eagle advert is Sydney Sweeney.
It is one of the advertising campaigns that has sparked the most controversy in 2025. Times are changing in society, and many do not accept wokism as a way of life. They advocate for a return to the classic advertising of the 90s, and the American Eagle campaign is a clear example of this.
The controversy behind the American Eagle campaign stems from the aesthetics of its ads and social media pieces. With a blonde actress, who could define the standard of beauty in the 90s, wearing and openly showing how the brand’s jeans fit her. We have already analyzed the reasons behind the controversy of the American Eagle campaign. But… who is the actress in the American Eagle advert? Let’s find out.
The actress of the American Eagle commercial
The actress in the American Eagle advert is Sydney Sweeney. Born in Spokane, Washington in 1997 and now 28 years old, she became well-known for her role in HBO’s Euphoria. Her beginnings in the film industry date back to small roles in the series 90210, Criminal Minds, Grey’s Anatomy, and Pretty Little Liars.
In 2019, Sydney Sweeney rose to fame playing Cassie Howard in HBO’s Euphoria, alongside Zendaya, Barbie Ferreira, and Hunter Schafer. The international success of the production propelled her to the forefront of her career. In 2022, she reprised the role in the second season and was nominated for an Emmy for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama.
The American Eagle campaign, starring Sydney Sweeney, sparked controversy for its play on words between jeans and genes. The phrase “My genes are blue,” linked to her eyes and denim, was interpreted by some as a nod to racial purity, which triggered accusations of racism, eugenics, and white supremacy. In addition, it received criticism for sexism by portraying the actress through the male gaze, reinforcing stereotypes of female sexualization and alienating part of the female audience.
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