Dunkin' Ad Under Fire After Sydney Sweeney Jeans Controversy
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A new Dunkin' ad is facing backlash for its use of the word "genetics."
The Dunkin' ad features The Summer I Turned Pretty actor Gavin Casalegno and highlights its Golden Hour Refresher drink by referencing the star's "golden" tan.
In the ad, Casalegno quips: "This tan? Genetics. I just got my color analysis back and guess what? Golden summer."
Newsweek has contacted Dunkin' for comment via email.
Why It Matters
The commercial was released just days after American Eagle's "Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans" campaign, which has faced backlash over claims of racist undertones and eugenics messaging, largely tied to its focus on Sweeney's genetics.
A Dunkin' Donuts sign on a store in Indianapolis in June 2017.
A Dunkin' Donuts sign on a store in Indianapolis in June 2017.
GETTY
What To Know
The reference to "genetics"—coupled with flattering commentary on the actor's tanned appearance—has led to some criticism online, with viewers linking the messaging to long-standing ideals predominantly associated with being white. The phrase "color analysis" alludes to a popular trend emphasizing shades that suit certain skin tones.
"why are there so many ads talking about genes and genetics...," one X user wrote. Another user said: "dog whistles aren't even whistles anymore just straight up megaphones.
"Two big ads alluding to "desirable genetics" should be a major red flag for a lot of us," another said.
However, others don't see the same problems.
"Why are people crying about this ad? I don't get it. The ad is fine also the model is gorgeous," one YouTube user commented on Dunkin's official page. Another posted: "Love it! Hilarious! Where do I get a color analysis? Good job, Dunkin! But, ... couldn't you recruit Sydney Sweeney?"
In American Eagle's ad, Sweeney more specifically references genetics: "Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair color, personality, and even eye color."
Critics accused the campaign of promoting exclusionary ideals and referencing eugenics, while supporters noted the ad's playful intent.
Even the White House has become embroiled in the debate, with Communications Director Steven Cheung weighing in on X.
Cancel culture run amok. This warped, moronic, and dense liberal thinking is a big reason why Americans voted the way they did in 2024. They're tired of this bullshit. pic.twitter.com/He7Ji6O3VF — Steven Cheung (@StevenCheung47) July 29, 2025
What People Are Saying
White House Communications Director Steven Cheung, on X: "Cancel culture run amok. This warped, moronic and dense liberal thinking is a big reason why Americans voted the way they did in 2024. They're tired of this bulls**t."
Ingrid Jacques, USA TODAY columnist, on American Eagle's campaign: "It's a ridiculous overreaction to an advertisement featuring a successful, attractive celebrity. And it's the latest example of how the left refuses to let go of their woke agenda and identity politics, which were soundly rejected in the 2024 election."
What Happens Next
Dunkin' has not publicly responded to the criticism.
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