Danica Patrick Doesn't Hold Back on Sydney Sweeney, American Eagle Controversy
Sydney Sweeney is at the center of controversy surrounding a new American Eagle denim ad campaign. The "Euphoria" and "Madame Web" actress is featured prominently in the brand's new set of ads, which include the tagline "Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans."
The line is meant to play on the similarities between "genes" and "jeans," as Sweeney mentions "hair color, personality and even eye color."
Sydney Sweeney x American Eagle, oh my god. pic.twitter.com/tDkeGT9R7G
— Sydney Sweeney Daily (@sweeneydailyx) July 24, 2025
Some have criticized the commercial for allegedly promoting racist ideologies, but another entertainer who was once prominently featured in controversial ads is speaking out.
"Can anyone tell me what's wrong with the new AE ads? Very confused," said Danica Patrick on her Instagram story. Patrick then posted a video of a person parodying some of the outrage and backlash over the ad campaign.
Patrick has been outspoken about several issues over the last few months, including her increased political involvement and support for President Donald Trump. The former racing driver noted that she participated in a presidential election for the first time last year, and publicly announced that she voted for Trump.
Patrick is also uniquely qualified to talk about this issue after her history as a spokesperson. Her ads for web hosting platform GoDaddy.com sparked similar controversy in the mid-2000s when they aired during the Super Bowl.
Some were critical of the ads, but they made Patrick a household name as she continued her career as a driver. She would go on to become the only woman in history to win an IndyCar race, and one of 14 people to lead both the Indianapolis and Daytona 500s - regardless of gender.
Sweeney's ad campaign has been divisive, even in the celebrity world. Rapper Doja Cat mocked Sweeney and her voiceover from the ad in a video on her social media accounts, while others like Patrick have spoken up in her defense.
Sweeney is featured prominently on American Eagle's website and on advertising within stores, and it appears that the company has created more interest than they would have with a more typical or conventional advertising campaign.
The online backlash has been swift from some, but it can also be argued that the attention is drawing even more eyes to the product.
We'll see if the bold move results in an impact in sales or profits for American Eagle.