Sydney Sweeney's Hollywood Sign Stunt Sparks Legal Concerns
Hollywood actress Sydney Sweeney could potentially face criminal charges following a provocative promotional stunt at one of Los Angeles's most famous landmarks. The Euphoria star, aged 28, reportedly climbed the iconic Hollywood sign to hang a clothesline of bras advertising her forthcoming lingerie brand, Syrn, raising serious questions about legal permissions and property violations.
Unauthorised Nighttime Activity at Protected Landmark
According to footage obtained by entertainment outlet TMZ, Sweeney undertook the daring nighttime shoot at the Hollywood sign, scaling the structure's 45-foot-tall letters while dressed in black cargo pants, a hoodie, and a hat. The actress then proceeded to decorate the landmark with bras from her upcoming Syrn collection before pausing to admire her unconventional handiwork.
While Sweeney's production team had secured the necessary filming permit from Film LA for the location, they crucially failed to obtain prior approval from the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to physically interact with or climb the sign's letters. This oversight has created significant legal exposure for both Sweeney and her team.
Potential Criminal Charges and Official Response
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, which holds the trademark for the sign and manages it through the non-profit Hollywood Sign Trust, confirmed to TMZ that "no permission was granted to do this, as is required." Typically, individuals caught climbing or decorating the Hollywood sign face immediate arrest at the scene.
Trespassing on this protected site constitutes a misdemeanor offense under California law, potentially resulting in fines reaching $1,000 or even jail sentences of up to six months. The landmark, originally constructed in 1923 and donated to the city of Los Angeles in 1944, sits on public land within Griffith Park but remains strictly off-limits to public access.
Enhanced Security Measures and Police Stance
The Hollywood sign is protected by multiple security layers including remote surveillance cameras, eight-foot perimeter fencing, and sophisticated motion sensors designed to deter unauthorized access. Regular monitoring is conducted by the Los Angeles Police Department, Fire Department, and park rangers to prevent tourist intrusions into the restricted area.
Interestingly, the LAPD informed Fox News Digital that no investigation has been launched thus far because "no crime was committed," creating a contradictory narrative about the incident's legal status. Neither the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce nor Sweeney's representatives responded to requests for comment from The Independent regarding the developing situation.
Background of Controversial Promotions and New Venture
This incident marks the second controversial marketing campaign involving Sweeney in recent months, following backlash over her previous American Eagle advertisement. Her new Syrn lingerie line, scheduled for launch imminently according to teaser materials featuring the actress, represents a significant entrepreneurial venture.
The brand reportedly benefits from substantial financial backing through investment firm Coatue, whose notable investors include Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his wife Lauren Sánchez. This high-profile support contrasts sharply with the potential legal complications arising from Sweeney's unconventional promotional methods at one of America's most recognizable cultural symbols.