Sydney Sweeney rings stock exchange opening bell alongside American Eagle CEO

Group 1 - Actress Sydney Sweeney rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) alongside American Eagle Outfitters Chairman and CEO Jay Schottenstein, marking a significant promotional event for the retailer [1] - Sweeney's partnership with American Eagle in 2025 for an advertising campaign has generated considerable online attention and controversy, particularly due to its wordplay that some critics argue blurs the line between fashion marketing and genetic traits [2][3] - The campaign slogan "Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans" was released last summer, and Sweeney's appearance at the NYSE included wearing jeans and a light blue denim jacket, reinforcing the campaign's theme [3] Group 2 - American Eagle's sales have reportedly surged as a result of the campaign, with President Donald Trump publicly defending Sweeney and promoting the ad, stating that the jeans are "flying off the shelves" [5] - In response to the backlash, American Eagle emphasized that the ad was focused on the jeans, stating, "Her jeans. Her story," and reaffirming their commitment to celebrating individual confidence in wearing their products [5][7]