Sydney Sweeney, the 28-year-old actress known for her roles in various films, is speaking out about her experiences in Hollywood. In a recent interview, Sweeney, who is promoting her new film “Christy,” discussed how she navigates the pressures of the entertainment industry and handles the constant scrutiny surrounding her image.
Sweeney described acting as her sanctuary, a place where she feels free from the constraints and judgments of the outside world. She likened herself to a “caged animal,” implying that Hollywood can feel restrictive, but acting allows her to express herself authentically.
Off-screen, Sweeney faces challenges, including ongoing discussions about her body. She addressed the perception of her as a “sex symbol,” stating that she prioritizes feeling good and confident in her own skin. She hopes to inspire other women to embrace their bodies and reject the need to apologize for or hide their appearance.
Sweeney has faced criticism in the past. Her collaboration with American Eagle for a fall clothing campaign sparked controversy over alleged racial undertones. The campaign, titled “Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans,” featured Sweeney altering an advertisement that originally read “Sydney Sweeney Has Great Genes.” Some critics argued that the phrase “great genes” has historically been used to promote certain beauty standards.
While some found the campaign insensitive, others defended Sweeney and the brand, viewing it as a lighthearted advertisement for jeans. Supporters argued that the campaign was not intended to cause harm and should not be interpreted as promoting any harmful ideology.

