Sydney Sweeney opens up about online backlash and political labels, says ‘I know what I stand for’

Sydney Sweeney has addressed online backlash and political labeling, saying she rejects hate, avoids politics and is learning to protect her mental health while staying true to who she is.

WEBDESK – MediaBites – January 30, 2026

Sydney Sweeney has spoken candidly about the wave of online criticism and political labeling she has faced in recent months, saying she is learning to navigate public perception while staying grounded in her own values.

The Euphoria star addressed the controversy in recent interviews, responding to the viral “MAGA Barbie” label and backlash linked to her American Eagle Outfitters advertising campaign. Sweeney, 28, said she has been pulled into political debates she never sought, despite repeatedly stressing that politics is not her platform.

The nickname began circulating online after reports emerged that Sweeney has been registered as a Republican since June 2024. Speaking to Cosmopolitan, she rejected the label and said political identity has never been central to her public work. “I’ve never been here to talk about politics,” she said. “I’ve always been here to make art.”

Further scrutiny followed the launch of her American Eagle “Great Jeans” campaign in July 2025, which drew criticism from some corners of social media. Detractors accused the ad of carrying extremist or exclusionary undertones, claims Sweeney strongly denied.

“Anyone who knows me knows that I’m always trying to bring people together,” she told People. “I’m against hate and divisiveness.”

Sweeney said one of the hardest aspects of the backlash has been having beliefs and motives attributed to her that do not reflect who she is. “It’s not comfortable to have people saying what you think or believe when it doesn’t align with you,” she said, adding that defending herself can sometimes worsen the reaction. “If I say, ‘That’s not true,’ people say I’m just trying to look better.”

The actor emphasized that her passion lies in storytelling, not political advocacy. “I’m in the arts,” she said. “That’s why I became an actor. I believe in love, respect and understanding for one another.”

Sweeney also acknowledged that stepping back from online commentary has become necessary for her mental health, even as she reflects on whether staying silent during the controversy may have deepened divisions. “My silence may have widened the gap, not closed it,” she said.

Despite the criticism, Sweeney said she remains firm in her sense of self. “I can’t make everyone love me,” she added. “I know what I stand for.”