Full Breakdown
Sydney Sweeney Rings NYSE Opening Bell Amid Controversial Ad Campaign
2/9/2026, 10:06:09 PM
Opening Event at the NYSE
On February 9, 2026, actress Sydney Sweeney rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) alongside American Eagle Outfitters Chairman and CEO Jay Schottenstein. This event marked a significant moment for Sweeney, who has partnered with American Eagle since 2025 for a high-profile advertising campaign that has generated considerable online discussion.
The Controversial Ad Campaign
The advertising campaign, which features the slogan “Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans,” has faced criticism for its perceived ambiguity. Detractors argue that the wordplay in the campaign blurs the line between fashion marketing and references to genetic traits. In a promotional video, Sweeney stated, “Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair color, personality, and even eye color. My jeans are blue.” This statement has been a focal point of the backlash against the campaign.
Responses to the Criticism
In response to the controversy, President Donald Trump expressed his support for Sweeney via a post on Truth Social, praising her as a registered Republican and stating, “Sydney Sweeney has the ‘HOTTEST’ ad out there. It’s for American Eagle, and the jeans are ‘flying off the shelves.’” American Eagle also addressed the backlash, emphasizing that the ad “is and always was about the jeans,” and reaffirmed their commitment to celebrating individual styles, stating, “Great jeans look good on everyone.”
Broader Implications
The incident highlights the intersection of celebrity culture and marketing, particularly how public figures can influence brand perception. Sweeney's involvement with American Eagle not only boosts the brand's visibility but also places her at the center of a cultural debate regarding the appropriateness of advertising language and imagery.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the campaign have raised concerns about the implications of using genetic terminology in fashion advertising. They argue that such language can perpetuate misunderstandings about genetics and body image. This criticism reflects broader societal discussions about the responsibilities of brands and celebrities in shaping public discourse.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair color, personality, and even eye color,” — Sydney Sweeney, Actress
- “Sydney Sweeney, a registered Republican, has the ‘HOTTEST’ ad out there. It’s for American Eagle, and the jeans are ‘flying off the shelves.’ Go get ‘em Sydney!” — Donald Trump, Former President
- “is and always was about the jeans.” — American Eagle Outfitters
This event and the surrounding controversy underscore the complexities of modern advertising and the role of public figures in navigating these challenges.
