Sydney Sweeney’s Hairstylist Defends Controversial ‘MAGA Bob’ Look

Sydney Sweeney’s recent hairstyle has sparked significant online backlash, prompting her hairstylist to defend the actress against critics. During an appearance on *The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon* on December 1, 2023, Sweeney showcased a straight, shoulder-length blonde bob with a centre-parting. Online commentators quickly likened her new look to styles associated with conservative movements, dubbing it a “MAGA bob.”

Many social media users remarked that Sweeney’s hairstyle resembled that of a “Stepford wife” and even suggested it appeared as if she were “running on the Republican ticket in 2028.” The negative comments intensified with claims that her hair looked like a “stiff wig,” drawing parallels to the coiffed styles often seen in right-wing circles.

Backlash Over American Eagle Ad

The criticism surrounding Sweeney’s hairstyle coincides with backlash from her July 23, 2025, advertisement for American Eagle, which featured the tagline “Sydney Sweeney has great jeans.” The ad stirred controversy as some interpreted “jeans” as a double entendre for “genes,” leading to accusations of promoting eugenic ideologies and white supremacy.

Despite the uproar, Sweeney chose not to address her critics directly. Interestingly, both the White House and former President Donald Trump came to her defense. Additionally, it was revealed that Sweeney has been registered with the Republican Party since 2024, which further fueled speculations about her political affiliations.

Fashion critic Blakely Thornton weighed in on Sweeney’s look during her *Tonight Show* appearance, describing the hairstyle as “the stiffest wig” and comparing it to a fictional character’s style. Thornton expressed skepticism regarding Sweeney’s fashion choices, suggesting that her team deliberately crafted a look intended to provoke response and garner attention.

Heated Exchange on Social Media

The ongoing discourse reached a new level when Thornton shared her opinions on Instagram, implying that Sweeney and her team were “committed to the bit” of provoking controversy. In a subsequent post, hairstylist Glen Oropeza responded to Thornton’s critique, allegedly stating, “Wasn’t a wig but you can’t get my girl’s name out of your mouth.”

Oropeza’s comments were met with further engagement from Thornton, who quipped about the dedication required for such a role, suggesting that the hairstylist was merely seeking attention. The exchange highlighted the tension between celebrity stylists and fashion critics, revealing the often combative nature of public opinion in the digital age.

This incident reflects not only the complexities of celebrity culture but also the intertwining of fashion, politics, and social commentary. As Sweeney continues to navigate her public image, the conversation around her style choices serves as a reminder of the scrutiny faced by public figures in today’s media landscape.