Pop star Doja Cat’s viral TikTok parody of Sydney Sweeney’s controversial “good genes” denim campaign has ignited widespread debate over celebrity influence, advertising responsibility, and the unintended eugenics implications of the slogan, leaving audiences laughing, shocked, and questioning the ethics behind modern fashion marketing.

Doja Cat ROASTS Sydney Sweeney's Jeans Ad

Pop sensation Doja Cat ignited a whirlwind of online discussion this week after posting a TikTok video parodying Sydney Sweeney’s latest denim campaign, which has already been under fire for its controversial messaging.

The campaign, featuring Sweeney in a series of high-fashion yet casual denim looks, prominently included the tagline suggesting the existence of “good genes,” a phrase that social media critics quickly linked to eugenics—a concept historically tied to discriminatory practices and the idea of selective breeding in humans.

Doja Cat’s parody, uploaded on Wednesday afternoon, showcased her mimicking Sweeney’s line delivery with exaggerated inflections, winks, and playful gestures while recreating the ad’s signature denim poses.

“It’s like she’s selling jeans and also subtly telling you about your DNA,” Doja quipped in the clip, which has since amassed over 4 million views within 24 hours.

Fans quickly flooded the comments, some laughing at the humor, others questioning the ethics behind the original campaign.

“This isn’t just about fashion—it’s about messaging and responsibility,” one Twitter user wrote, referencing the viral campaign.

Critics on Instagram and TikTok called out the use of “good genes” as insensitive, citing the historical context of eugenics and warning that even subtle language in advertising can perpetuate harmful ideas.

Industry insiders confirm that the brand had initially intended the line as a tongue-in-cheek nod to celebrity DNA hype, but it inadvertently touched a nerve among activists and social commentators.

 

Doja Cat brutally roasts Sydney Sweeney's jeans campaign amid heavy  backlash. Watch | Hollywood - Hindustan Times

 

Sweeney, who rose to prominence through projects like Euphoria and the upcoming Paul Feig film The Housemaid, has not yet commented publicly on Doja Cat’s parody or the controversy surrounding the ad.

Sources close to the campaign suggest that Sweeney was unaware of how polarizing the phrasing could be during production, focusing more on the visual storytelling and fashion-forward aesthetics of the campaign rather than its literal semantics.

Meanwhile, fashion critics note that the campaign’s imagery has successfully drawn attention to the denim line, with some praising Sweeney’s effortless ability to channel both classic and edgy looks.

Others, however, argue that no amount of stylistic flair can erase the problematic phrasing, making Doja Cat’s satire both timely and culturally resonant.

“Parody is powerful right now because it makes you think,” said media analyst Jordan Rivers.

“Doja Cat isn’t just making fun of the line delivery—she’s forcing a conversation about the deeper implications of language in marketing and celebrity influence.

Brands and celebrities alike are navigating a minefield of social awareness, and even subtle cues can spark viral debate.”

The TikTok also included a split-screen format where Doja contrasted her playful take with clips from the original ad, highlighting moments where Sweeney’s understated expressions made the “good genes” line sound almost boastful.

Viewers reacted with mixed feelings—some appreciated the humor and cultural commentary, while others argued that parodying serious issues in fashion campaigns risks minimizing the historical weight of concepts like eugenics.

 

Doja Cat mocks Sydney Sweeney's controversial American Eagle 'great jeans'  ad – NBC Los Angeles

 

As of now, the campaign continues to run on billboards, social media channels, and retail displays across major cities, including New York, Los Angeles, and London.

The brand has yet to release an official statement regarding the backlash or Doja Cat’s viral parody, leaving many industry watchers speculating on whether a clarification or revision is forthcoming.

With the clip trending across multiple platforms, the intersection of celebrity culture, fashion marketing, and social responsibility has once again taken center stage.

Social media conversations are also touching on broader discussions about representation, body image, and how advertising language can unintentionally reinforce outdated or controversial ideologies.

Doja Cat’s parody, while humorous on the surface, underscores the modern landscape of virality where celebrity influence, social critique, and public perception collide.

As fans continue to debate the merits of the campaign versus the satire, one thing is clear: the conversation around Sweeney’s denim ads is far from over, and brands will likely tread more cautiously in crafting provocative slogans moving forward.

The video has left audiences wondering—will Sweeney respond, will the brand amend its messaging, and how far can humor go before it sparks serious cultural dialogue? Social media users are watching closely, ready to weigh in on the evolving story.