Sydney Sweeney Faces Backlash Over Speech and Sheer Gown

Sydney Sweeney, the 28-year-old star of Euphoria, has found herself at the center of controversy after delivering a heartfelt speech about resilience and identity at Variety’s Power of Women event in Beverly Hills.

While her message resonated with many attendees, it sparked significant backlash online, particularly regarding her choice of attire—a revealing sheer gown that left little to the imagination.

The Speech and Its Message

During her speech, Sweeney spoke candidly about the challenges she has faced in Hollywood.

She drew parallels between her experiences and those of Christy Martin, a pioneering female boxer, whose story she is set to portray in an upcoming film.

Sweeney expressed her understanding of being underestimated and defined by others, stating, “I know what it feels like to be underestimated, to have people define you before you’ve had a chance to define yourself.”

She emphasized the importance of resilience, saying, “Every one of us has our own fight, and Christy reminds us that strength doesn’t always look loud. Sometimes, it’s just about getting back up again and again.”

While her words were met with applause in the room, the online response was less favorable.

The backlash began after the Euphoria star, 28, delivered a vulnerable speech about resilience, identity and being underestimated in the industry during Variety's Power Of Women event

The Backlash Begins

Critics quickly took to social media to voice their discontent with Sweeney’s choice of dress, arguing that it contradicted the very message she was trying to convey about objectification and being underestimated.

Many felt that her sheer gown, which prominently displayed her body, overshadowed the substance of her speech.

One Instagram user sarcastically remarked, “You’re right. No one knows hardship like a thin, blonde, straight, white woman lol.”

Another commenter pointed out the irony, stating, “After she said she didn’t like when people defined her, she appeared at an event wearing a see-through gown exposing her boobs, proving people were right when they defined her.”

Many expressed frustration over the setting of her speech, arguing that it was inappropriate for an event meant to honor strength and leadership.

One critic stated, “This event is supposed to honor strength, substance, and leadership, not play into the same visual objectification women have fought against for decades.”

Mixed Reactions

Despite the criticism, not all responses were negative.

Some fans defended Sweeney, calling the backlash petty and unjustified.

One supporter commented, “I think it’s hilarious this event is empowerment of women yet 90% of the comments are jealous women hating on her.”

Another added, “Wow, the hate comments here are insane. Spread good vibes, people. The world has enough hate.”

While Sweeney's speech drew applause in the room, online reaction was far more brutal, with many accusing the actress of contradicting her own message about objectification

The Sheer Gown

Sweeney’s gown, designed in collaboration with Christian Cowan and emerging designer Elias Matso, was a striking silver mesh creation that accentuated her figure.

The dress was crafted from crystal mesh and featured a steel-boned corset, giving it a sculptural quality that highlighted her hourglass silhouette.

As she arrived at the event, Sweeney undoubtedly ensured that all eyes were on her, showcasing her style and confidence.

Hollywood Connections

At the Variety event, Sweeney appeared to be back in Hollywood’s good graces, mingling with fellow celebrities such as Sharon Stone and Jamie Lee Curtis.

Earlier this year, however, Sweeney faced some backlash from her peers due to various controversies, including her divisive American Eagle campaign and her political stance as a registered Republican.

On Wednesday night, Sydney Sweeney, 28, turned heads in a figure hugging, silver mesh dress which left little to the imagination

Conclusion

The incident surrounding Sydney Sweeney highlights the complexities of navigating fame and public perception in Hollywood.

While her speech aimed to inspire and empower, the choice of attire led to a significant backlash, raising questions about the balance between personal expression and societal expectations.

As discussions around objectification and representation continue to evolve, Sweeney’s experience serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by women in the entertainment industry.

The mixed reactions to her speech and gown reflect broader societal debates about empowerment, identity, and the ways women are perceived in the public eye.

Ultimately, Sweeney’s journey illustrates the ongoing struggle for women to define themselves on their own terms while confronting external judgments and expectations.