Sydney Sweeney ain’t keeping her lips tight like a pair of skinny jeans any longer — she has fully addressed the viral American Eagle ad controversy.

The blonde-haired, blue-eyed actress opened up about the highly publicized AE ad drama that unfolded over the summer, telling People she was “surprised by the reaction.” She also noted she doesn’t support the narrative that people were pairing with the campaign, stating … “Many have assigned motives and labels to me that just aren’t true.”

As you know, folks thought the “Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans” slogan featured in the campaign had underlying support of genetic superiority. Some people also likened it to 15-year-old Brooke Shields‘ controversial 1980 denim campaign and accused it of being styled for the male gaze.

AE immediately pushed back at the hate, saying in a statement that Sydney’s ad “always was about the jeans” and her story. The company went on … “We’ll continue to celebrate how everyone wears their AE jeans with confidence, their way. Great jeans look good on everyone.”

Sydney told People while she usually does not respond to negativity, this seemed like a special case that needed to be addressed to end the hate. She explained … “Anyone who knows me knows that I’m always trying to bring people together. I’m against hate and divisiveness.”

She added … “So I hope this new year brings more focus on what connects us instead of what divides us.”

The “Housemaid” star first spoke about the drama during an interview with GQ for its “Men of the Year” cover story published in early November, but took a much mor casual approach. She noted at the time … “I did a jean ad. I mean, the reaction definitely was a surprise, but I love jeans. All I wear are jeans. I’m literally in jeans and a T-shirt every day of my life.”

Despite the backlash, the campaign worked in AE’s favor, as the chatter sent the company’s stocks soaring and even increased foot traffic in brick-and-mortar stores by 5%. Plus, they reported her custom Sydney Jeans sold out in a day.

Cocona — a beloved member of the Japanese girl group XG — celebrated their 20th birthday by getting real about their gender identity — they have come out as transmasculine and nonbinary.

Cocona also announced they had top surgery earlier this year, successfully removing their breasts. The “GALA” hitmaker did not share their updated pronouns.

Cocona shared the personal update with 3.2 million fans via the group’s Instagram account alongside photos that showed them posing in an unopened black blazer that gave a glimpse of their top surgery scar. In the lengthy translated message, they let followers know this is something that has been on their mind and in their heart “for a long time.”

The artist also thanked their bandmates and parents for their unwavering support, and shouted out XG’s fans, saying, “This message turned out a bit long, but I just want to say thank you — for walking beside me and for supporting me all this way. I’m so excited for the future we’ll continue to create together.”

Cocona is one of 7 members of the hip-hop and R&B-inspired band, which debuted in 2022. They perform alongside Jurin, Chisa, Hinata, Harvey, Juria and Maya.

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With Hanukkah kicking off on December 14, there’s still time to get your hands on all the essentials you need for your home. From menorahs to festive fits, we’ve pulled together a bunch of holiday finds for you and your family.

No need to spin a dreidel or dip into your gelt to get your hands on these good deals.

Can’t have any Hanukkah celebration without this essentual — and now is your chance to get a brand new Yair Emanuel Gold & Silver Hammered Pomegranate Tree Menorah!

Celebrate each of the eight nights in glory and glamor with this beautiful Menorah designed to resemble a pomegranate tree, graced with a beautiful balance of silver and gold just to make this year — and all subsequent years of celebration — even more special.

Cozy up to all of your Hanukkah-celebrating buddies with these Hanukkah Comfy Unisex Matching Jumpsuits!

They come in blue with all of your favorite holiday iconography. Wear it with the rest of your household and channel the uniformity of the mighty Maccabees.

Avoid that annoying sheen of wax that sometimes coats your table as you celebrate the week of Hanukkah with this Menorah Drip Tray.

Sometimes you need something a little more flattering than a crumpled up piece of tin foil. Catch the wax from your candles effectively and gracefully with this tray. It also goes well with the Menorah above, too!

The Dreidel Company’s Twisted Hanukkah Menorah Candles are the best option to go along with your new Menorah, drip tray, and any other new purchases you’ll be making to make this year’s Hanukkah celebration special.

These spiral-shaped candles are as elegant as they are helpful in illuminating your home the Hillel way — if you went to Hebrew school, you’ll get the reference!

While your dog might not be able to enjoy all the holiday cuisine Hanukkah has to offer, this  Hanukkah Dog Toy with Squeaker is perfect for them to chew on.

Instead of breaking out the “oy vey’s” every time your dog decides to go on a furniture-tearing rampage, give them one of these instead!

Obviously a chew toy is not going to be the most helpful in pacifying your kids … but luckily, this Calis Books Jewish Sound Book is the perfect distraction!

It comes with six traditional songs in Hebrew … so this book is not only a way to help get your kids into the Hanukkah spirit, but will also educate them on all of the Hebrew hymns they should know!

Saving the treats for last … get yourself a 200-pack of these The Dreidel Company Hanukkah Milk Chocolate Gold Coins!

To the victor go the spoils! As as you celebrate the Maccabees fight for freedom, give yourself a little treat in the form of Gelt while playing dreidel.

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