A promotional billboard featuring actress Sydney Sweeney in Los Angeles has unexpectedly become embroiled in political controversy after members of the far-right group Proud Boys claimed it as their own.
The billboard, displaying the Euphoria and The White Lotus star in a patriotic-themed outfit, was erected as part of a marketing campaign. However, the imagery was quickly adopted by the extremist group, who shared photos of themselves posing beneath it with their signature black-and-yellow attire.
Why the Billboard Drew Far-Right Attention
The advertisement features Sweeney in a red, white, and blue ensemble, holding an American flag—a visual that some Proud Boys members interpreted as aligning with their nationalist ideology. The group, classified as a hate organisation by several watchdogs, has a history of co-opting patriotic symbols.
While the billboard was intended as a neutral promotional tool, its unintended association with the Proud Boys has sparked backlash. Critics argue that the imagery, however unintentionally, risks normalising extremist rhetoric.
Public Reaction and Industry Response
Social media users were quick to condemn the Proud Boys' appropriation of the billboard, with many calling for greater awareness of how marketing visuals can be misinterpreted. Some have urged brands to be more cautious with patriotic themes in advertising.
Representatives for Sydney Sweeney have not yet commented on the controversy. However, industry insiders suggest that the incident highlights the challenges of balancing creative expression with the potential for unintended political associations.
As debates over symbolism and messaging continue, the billboard remains a striking example of how pop culture and politics can collide in unexpected ways.
