Sydney Sweeney, the rising star of hit shows like Euphoria and The White Lotus, has broken her silence on disparaging remarks made by veteran Hollywood producer Carol Baum earlier this year. In a candid interview with Vanity Fair, Sweeney addressed Baum’s controversial comments, calling out the lack of genuine female solidarity in the entertainment industry.
The Incident That Sparked Outrage
During a discussion with New York Times film critic Janet Maslin in Pleasantville, N.Y., Baum questioned Sweeney’s appeal, saying, “She’s not pretty, she can’t act. Why is she so hot?” She also criticized Sweeney’s latest rom-com, Anyone but You, as “unwatchable.”
Baum’s remarks quickly went viral, drawing widespread backlash. A representative for Sweeney responded at the time, calling Baum’s comments “shameful” and lamenting her decision to use her platform to tear down another woman instead of sharing her expertise in a constructive way.
Sweeney’s Response
In her Vanity Fair interview, Sweeney shared her disappointment in Baum’s comments and the broader culture of negativity among women in Hollywood. “It’s very disheartening to see women tear other women down,” she said. “Especially when women who are successful in other avenues of their industry see younger talent working really hard … and then try to bash and discredit any work that they’ve done.”
Sweeney didn’t hold back when addressing the industry’s lack of authenticity regarding female empowerment. “This entire industry, all people say is, ‘Women empowering other women.’ None of it’s happening. All of it is fake and a front for all the other shit that they say behind everyone’s back.”
A Generational Issue
Sweeney reflected on the root causes of such behavior, suggesting it stems from societal and generational norms that pit women against each other. “Our entire lives, we were raised — and it’s a generational problem — to believe only one woman can be at the top,” she explained. “So then all the others feel like they have to fight each other or take that one woman down instead of being like, ‘Let’s all lift each other up.’”
The actor, who has gained recognition for her nuanced performances and undeniable charisma, questioned why she became a target. “I’m still trying to figure it out. I’m just trying my best over here. Why am I getting attacked?”
Standing Strong
Despite the criticism, Sweeney remains focused on her work and continues to advocate for genuine support among women in the industry. While Baum’s comments may have aimed to undermine her success, Sweeney’s response underscores her resilience and commitment to changing the toxic dynamics of Hollywood.
As she put it, “I’m just trying to achieve my dreams, and I think we should all be rooting for each other to do the same.”
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