Backlash Erupts: Angel Reese Fans Boycott American Eagle Over Sydney Sweeney Ad Accused of Disrespecting Black Culture

The intersection of sports and fashion took a dramatic turn this week as WNBA sensation Angel Reese and her supporters ignited a boycott against American Eagle, the popular youth clothing retailer. The controversy centers on American Eagle’s latest campaign featuring actress Sydney Sweeney, which critics say disrespects Black culture—a claim that has set social media ablaze and placed the brand under intense scrutiny.

Angel Reese Takes a Stand

Angel Reese, forward for the Chicago Sky, is renowned not only for her basketball prowess but also for her outspokenness and cultural influence. Nicknamed “Bayou Barbie,” Reese has built a reputation for authenticity and leadership both on and off the court. Her willingness to speak out on issues beyond sports has made her a role model for many, and this latest controversy is no exception.

Reacting to the American Eagle campaign, Reese publicly voiced her frustration, declaring, “Time for a change!” Her statement resonated with her followers, who quickly rallied to her side. The call for a boycott was swift, with fans and advocates demanding accountability and change from American Eagle.

Social Media Mobilizes

Almost immediately, social media platforms saw an outpouring of support for Reese. Hashtags like #BoycottAE, #StandWithAngel, and #TimeForChange trended as fans criticized the campaign’s imagery, arguing it trivialized and misrepresented aspects of Black culture. For many, this was not an isolated incident but part of a larger pattern of cultural appropriation and the marginalization of Black voices in mainstream advertising.

Reese’s stance offered her supporters a clear rallying point, transforming individual frustration into a collective movement that challenged the status quo.

American Eagle Faces Backlash

American Eagle, long celebrated for its inclusive branding and appeal to diverse youth audiences, now finds itself at the epicenter of a cultural storm. The company’s silence in the face of the boycott has only intensified criticism, with analysts warning that failure to address the issue could alienate socially conscious consumers. On the other hand, any decisive action could risk backlash from fans of Sweeney or those who view the boycott as unwarranted.

The stakes are high for American Eagle, as the brand’s image and future loyalty may depend on how it navigates this pivotal moment.

Angel Reese: More Than an Athlete

Since her days at LSU, Angel Reese has been more than just a basketball player—she’s become a symbol of confidence, individuality, and authenticity. Her rookie season in the WNBA shattered records and brought unprecedented attention to women’s basketball. Now, by stepping into the cultural debate surrounding American Eagle, Reese is further cementing her role as a leader and advocate for change.

Her actions have drawn praise for their courage and leadership, though critics warn of the risks involved when athletes engage in cultural and political discourse. Nevertheless, Reese’s influence continues to grow, extending far beyond the basketball court.

What’s Next?

As the controversy unfolds, all eyes are on American Eagle. Will the brand stand by its campaign and Sydney Sweeney, or will it acknowledge the criticism and make changes? In an era where brand loyalty is shaped by cultural awareness and accountability, the retailer faces a critical test.

Meanwhile, Angel Reese’s message remains unwavering: respect and representation matter, and silence in the face of cultural disrespect is no longer acceptable. Her leadership has galvanized a passionate fanbase and brought national attention to the issue.

A Broader Conversation

Ultimately, this dispute goes beyond one athlete, one actress, or one brand. It reflects a larger conversation about cultural respect, corporate responsibility, and the power of public figures to challenge harmful practices. Whether American Eagle chooses to adapt or not, Angel Reese has already made her mark—mobilizing her fans, elevating the debate, and reminding the world that athletes are cultural leaders as well as competitors.

For Reese and her supporters, the message is clear: it’s time for change, and they’re determined to see it happen.