Overview

• The Golden Hour Refresher spot features Gavin Casalegno poolside crediting his tan to “genetics” in a playful color analysis bit.
• Online critics link the ad to Eurocentric beauty ideals and draw parallels to American Eagle’s Sydney Sweeney “genes/jeans” campaign.
• Dunkin’ has not responded to inquiries about the backlash, leaving its official position on the controversy unclarified.
• Some viewers defend the commercial as a harmless summer promotion and attribute the uproar to unfortunate timing.
• Industry analysts warn the uproar could spur brands to rethink references to genetics and identity in future marketing.