Sydney Sweeney, the acclaimed actress known for her roles in shows like Euphoria and The White Lotus, is facing a wave of reactions following her recent ad campaign for American Eagle jeans. The commercial, featuring Sweeney in a full denim outfit, includes the tagline, "Sydney Sweeney has great jeans." However, the campaign has sparked debate, with some critics suggesting it echoes rhetoric associated with eugenics and white supremacy.
Comedian Mocks Sweeney's Ad
Adding fuel to the fire, Los Angeles-based comedian Michael Pavano has created a parody of Sweeney's ad on TikTok. In the video, Pavano sports a wig and exaggerated features while mimicking Sweeney's voiceover, making nonsensical statements about genetics. His character proclaims, "My jeans are blue — so they’re, like, better than yours. They say people with blond hair and blue eyes, they’re nature’s favorite. I don’t say it, but they do — but I buy it!"
Pavano told Daily Mail that the sketch has been well-received so far.
Public Opinion on Sweeney and 'Good Genes'
Amid the controversy, a new YouGov poll reveals interesting insights into how Americans view Sydney Sweeney and the concept of "good genes." The poll shows that 35% of Americans have a favorable opinion of Sweeney, while 13% have an unfavorable opinion. Conservatives are particularly likely to view her favorably.
Do Americans Believe in 'Good Genes'?
Interestingly, the poll also found that a significant majority of Americans (79%) agree that some people have better genes than others. Furthermore, 59% of Americans believe it is appropriate to say that someone has "good genes."
While the American Eagle ad campaign has stirred controversy, the poll suggests that the concept of "good genes" resonates with many Americans. The debate surrounding Sweeney's ad highlights the complex intersection of genetics, advertising, and public perception.