Sydney Sweeney has candidly discussed her experiences with being sexualized in the entertainment industry, a situation she has grown accustomed to since her prominent role in the HBO series Euphoria. During an appearance on SiriusXM’s “The Julia Cunningham Show” on October 28, 2023, the 28-year-old actress addressed the scrutiny surrounding her performances, particularly in light of her role as a pregnant nun in the upcoming horror film Immaculate.
The conversation highlighted a review that criticized her character’s portrayal, describing her as “constantly in a wet white shirt.” Sweeney reflected on her journey, stating, “I’ve been dealing with it since Euphoria, so I’m kind of used to it at this point.” The host of the show asked if she felt the series was responsible for the ongoing sexualization of her roles, to which Sweeney responded affirmatively, noting that the character of Cassie became a significant figure in pop culture.
Struggles with Typecasting
Sweeney emphasized the difficulty many have in separating actors from their characters, particularly when those characters are as impactful as Cassie. “It was honestly the first big thing people saw me in, and I think it’s difficult for people to disassociate actors from their roles, especially a character like that,” she explained. This connection often leads to a “different kind of dynamic,” making it challenging for her to navigate subsequent roles.
To illustrate her point, Sweeney revealed that even her brothers began to communicate with her using memes of her character. Yet, she remains optimistic about her career, stating, “Every character I’ve done since then has challenged the viewer’s perception of the types of roles I play.” She mentioned films like Reality, Americana, and Eden as examples of her efforts to break away from typecasting.
Acknowledging Personal Struggles
Sweeney recently showcased her versatility and depth as an actress while portraying real-life professional boxer Christy Martin in the upcoming film Christy. At the Variety’s Power of Women event on October 29, 2023, where she received an award for her advocacy work, Sweeney dedicated her honor to Martin. She expressed her understanding of the challenges Martin faced and how they resonate with her own experiences.
“I know what it feels like to be underestimated, to have people define you before you’ve had a chance to define yourself,” Sweeney remarked. She highlighted the importance of resilience, stating, “Strength doesn’t look loud sometimes, and sometimes it’s just about getting back up again and again, no matter who’s watching.”
At the same event, Sweeney made a bold fashion statement by wearing a sheer silver dress that drew considerable attention. Her Euphoria co-star, Sharon Stone, supported Sweeney’s choice, asserting, “It’s OK to use what mama gave you.” Stone added that embracing one’s attractiveness is essential: “It’s hard to be hot, and I think we all know that.”
Through her candid remarks, Sweeney sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by women in the industry while simultaneously showcasing her commitment to evolving as an actress and advocating for self-empowerment. As she continues to navigate her career, her experiences serve as a reminder of the complexities of fame and the importance of authenticity in the face of external expectations.
