Overview
- Sweeney told People she was surprised by the backlash and said she does not support the motives critics linked to the campaign.
- She acknowledged that her months of silence "widened the divide" and said she wants to focus on bringing people together.
- American Eagle has maintained the ad was about denim and the brand’s message, with reports noting rapid sell‑through of featured pieces.
- The “jeans/genes” wordplay fueled allegations of racially charged signaling and drew critiques about catering to the male gaze.
- The dispute entered national politics, with President Donald Trump praising the ad, as Sweeney continues press for her film The Housemaid.