Angel Reese, WNBA star and outspoken advocate for social justice, has sparked a firestorm of controversy after calling for a boycott of American Eagle’s latest marketing campaign. The ad, which features Euphoria star Sydney Sweeney, has been deemed “disgusting and divisive” by Reese, sending shockwaves through the fashion world and beyond. This bold statement has ignited passionate reactions from fans, fashion insiders, and cultural commentators alike.

The Controversial Ad Campaign

American Eagle’s new ad campaign, fronted by Sydney Sweeney, has generated considerable buzz since its launch. The campaign, which embraces a retro Americana aesthetic, features playful and provocative styling. Promoted heavily on social media and displayed on billboards across the country, the ad was designed to appeal to a broad, youthful audience.

However, for Angel Reese, the campaign’s messaging crossed a line. In a tweet posted late last night on her verified X (formerly Twitter) account, Reese wrote: “This is NOT the America I stand for. American Eagle’s decision to push this campaign is disgusting and divisive. We deserve brands that unite, not pit people against each other. I won’t wear their clothes again, and neither should you.”

The tweet immediately sparked a storm of reactions. Some supporters were quick to back Reese, while others questioned her judgment, arguing that the issue was being blown out of proportion.

Reese’s Reaction and the Call for a Boycott

Reese didn’t mince words in condemning the ad campaign. While she didn’t specify exactly which aspects of the ad she found offensive, sources close to the player suggested that it was both the tone and the underlying themes that irked her. Some critics have labeled the campaign as “tone-deaf,” citing its potential to alienate certain communities in today’s cultural climate. For Reese, who has built her reputation as a vocal advocate for social justice, the ad seemed to miss the mark in terms of cultural sensitivity and unity.

Her call for a boycott of American Eagle quickly gained traction on social media, with hashtags like #BoycottAmericanEagle and #StandWithAngel trending on X. Fans praised Reese for using her platform to address what she viewed as a significant cultural misstep, highlighting her history of speaking out on issues beyond basketball, such as gender equality and racial justice.

Backlash and Support: Divided Reactions

Almost immediately, Reese’s comments generated backlash from some quarters, particularly among those who felt she was unfairly targeting a fellow woman in the public eye. Critics of Reese’s position pointed out that Sydney Sweeney, who is merely the face of the campaign, didn’t create or design the ad herself. “Sydney didn’t design the campaign — she’s just the face of it,” one commenter wrote. “Going after her personally isn’t the solution.”

This division in opinion has become a talking point for many, with some defending Reese’s stance as an important stand for cultural awareness, while others accuse her of using her platform to escalate a situation that could have been handled differently. As the social media debate continues to intensify, it’s clear that Reese’s comments have ignited a larger conversation about the responsibility of brands in their messaging and the role celebrities play in such campaigns.

Silence from American Eagle and Sydney Sweeney

As of Thursday morning, American Eagle and Sydney Sweeney have yet to publicly respond to Reese’s accusations. The brand’s official social media accounts continue to promote the campaign, but there has been no acknowledgment of the growing controversy. This silence has only fueled further speculation and debate among fans and commentators.

Some industry experts note that in today’s interconnected media environment, a single tweet from an influential figure like Angel Reese can have massive ripple effects for a major brand. The fashion industry, especially, is highly sensitive to cultural perceptions, and it’s not just about the clothes—it’s about the story brands tell and how their messaging resonates with consumers. American Eagle’s lack of response has left many wondering whether the brand will ultimately take action to address the backlash or stick with the campaign as is.

The Role of Athlete Activism

Angel Reese is no stranger to using her platform for activism. Known as much for her fearless stance on issues of race, gender equality, and social justice as for her skills on the basketball court, Reese has often spoken out against what she perceives as societal injustices. This latest controversy over the American Eagle campaign highlights the growing influence of athletes in areas beyond sports. Reese’s powerful voice in the conversation surrounding cultural issues has made her a key figure in the ongoing discussion about race, representation, and media responsibility.

However, this kind of direct call for a boycott is not without risks. Media analysts caution that while boycotts can be a powerful tool for effecting change, they can also backfire. “This is a high-visibility, high-risk move,” said media analyst Jordan Castillo. “If public sentiment turns against her, it could alienate sponsors and create lasting brand tension. But if she taps into a broader feeling of discontent, she could force American Eagle to respond or even change the campaign.”

Whether or not Reese’s actions lead to significant changes in the brand’s marketing strategy remains to be seen, but her move has undoubtedly sparked a wider conversation about the intersection of culture, marketing, and activism.

What’s Next for American Eagle and Reese?

As the situation continues to unfold, both Angel Reese and American Eagle are facing critical decisions. Will the brand make any adjustments to its campaign in response to the backlash, or will it stand firm on its messaging? Will Reese’s call for a boycott have a long-term impact on American Eagle’s sales and public perception?

For now, the controversy remains fresh, with fans and commentators continuing to dissect the issue from all angles. Some believe Reese’s activism could lead to positive changes in the way brands approach cultural sensitivity in their marketing, while others feel it’s an overreaction that harms women in the spotlight.

As the debate rages on, one thing is certain: in today’s media landscape, the power of an athlete’s voice can no longer be ignored. Whether it’s calling out brands for cultural insensitivity or championing causes for social justice, figures like Angel Reese are shaping the future of activism in ways that extend far beyond the basketball court.

In the coming weeks, we may learn more about how this controversy evolves, but one thing is clear—the conversation about representation, cultural awareness, and the role of celebrity influence in shaping public opinion is far from over.