Sydney Sweeney Responds to Backlash Over Bathwater Soap Campaign

Sydney Sweeney may not have addressed the controversy surrounding her American Eagle jeans ad, but she has spoken out about another viral campaign that had the internet buzzing earlier this year.

In a recent interview with The Wall Street Journal, the Emmy-nominated actress reflected on the reaction to her bathwater-inspired soap collaboration with men’s hygiene brand Dr. Squatch. The limited-edition product, named Sydney’s Bathwater Bliss, sold out instantly after its May release.

Sydney Sweeney admitted that while she doesn't spend much time on social media discussions, she considers it important to pay attention to audience reactions since public opinion is part of the ongoing conversation between celebrities and their fans. She also noted that most of the comments about the collaboration came from women, which she found particularly interesting. Many of them compared the concept to the viral bathwater references linked to Jacob Elordi’s performance in 'Saltburn', which became a major pop culture talking point in 2023.

Image Courtesy: Dexerto

Sydney Sweeney Responds to Controversy

The 'Euphoria' star first teased the soap on Instagram, explaining that fans had consistently joked about her bathwater after her earlier suggestive ads for Dr. Squatch. The collaboration was framed as a playful nod to that conversation, ultimately turning into one of the brand’s fastest-selling limited drops.

Since then, Sydney Sweeney has remained in the spotlight, though not always for lighthearted reasons. Her American Eagle jeans campaign, in which she referenced the concept of genes before delivering a punchline about her blue jeans, ignited widespread backlash. Critics accused the ad of containing undertones of eugenics and harmful propaganda, sparking a debate that drew responses from celebrities including Lizzo, Doja Cat, and Stephen Colbert, as well as political figures like Vice President J.D. Vance and President Donald Trump.

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Image Courtesy: People

Trump even publicly praised the ad, though his comments came after it was revealed by The Guardian that Sydney Sweeney had registered as a Republican voter in Florida in 2024. In response to the controversy, American Eagle issued a statement clarifying that the campaign was meant to celebrate Sweeney’s personal style and confidence, emphasising that their messaging has always centred on inclusivity and individuality.

While the jeans ad continues to stir conversation, Sweeney's bathwater soap collaboration highlights how she leans into viral moments with humour and boldness — a strategy that has kept her firmly at the centre of pop culture buzz.

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