Comedian Nate Bargatze briefly mentioned Sydney Sweeney’s controversial American Eagle advertisement during his hosting duties at a recent award ceremony. The passing comment came as part of Bargatze’s opening monologue, where he referenced several current pop culture moments.
Sweeney’s American Eagle campaign has generated significant discussion in recent weeks, with opinions divided on the advertisement’s approach and messaging. The “Euphoria” actress has been a brand ambassador for the clothing retailer since early 2023.
The Controversy Behind the Advertisement
The American Eagle advertisement featuring Sweeney sparked debate when it was released last month. Critics claimed the campaign relied too heavily on Sweeney’s image rather than the clothing products, while supporters argued it simply showcased the brand’s target demographic effectively.
Social media reactions to the campaign were mixed, with some users praising the authentic feel of the photos while others questioned whether the marketing strategy aligned with American Eagle’s stated brand values.
Industry analysts have noted that the controversy might actually benefit both parties, as the increased attention has generated free publicity for both the brand and the actress.
Bargatze’s Comedy Style
Nate Bargatze, known for his clean comedy and observational humor, typically avoids controversial topics in his stand-up routines. His brief mention of the Sweeney advertisement represented a slight departure from his usual material.
The comedian has gained popularity in recent years through his Netflix specials and late-night television appearances. His hosting gig marks another step in his rising career trajectory.
Audience members reported that Bargatze’s reference to the advertisement was light-hearted and didn’t dwell on the controversy, instead using it as a jumping-off point for other jokes.
Celebrity Reactions
Sweeney, who was not present at the event, has not publicly responded to Bargatze’s comment. Her representatives declined to provide a statement when contacted.
Other celebrities in attendance had mixed reactions to the joke, with some laughing along while others appeared surprised by the reference. Camera shots of the audience showed mostly positive responses.
This incident adds to a growing trend of award show hosts incorporating current advertising campaigns into their material, blurring the lines between entertainment and marketing commentary.
The brief moment highlights how quickly advertising controversies can permeate popular culture, becoming reference points in unrelated entertainment contexts.
As brands continue to partner with high-profile celebrities, the potential for their campaigns to become part of broader cultural conversations—and comedy material—remains high. For both Sweeney and American Eagle, this unexpected mention extends the campaign’s reach beyond traditional advertising channels.
