Sydney Sweeney responds to Hollywood producer's 'not pretty' comment
What's the story
Sydney Sweeney, acclaimed for her performances in Euphoria and The White Lotus, among other popular Hollywood projects, has clapped back at harsh criticism from veteran Hollywood producer Carol Baum. During a conversation in Pleasantville, New York, Baum recently described Sweeney as "not pretty" and claimed she "can't act." She also disparaged Sweeney's popular romantic comedy Anyone But You, labeling it "unwatchable." Now, Sweeney has responded via her spokesperson.
Response
'How sad': Sweeney's representative responded
Sweeney's representative issued a statement to Variety expressing disappointment in Baum's criticisms. The representative stated, "How sad that a woman in the position to share her expertise and experience chooses instead to attack another woman." "If that's what she's learned in her decades in the industry and feels is appropriate to teach to her students, that's shameful." "To unjustly disparage a fellow female producer speaks volumes about Ms. Baum's character."
Harsh comments
Baum had a nasty view of Sweeney
Baum, while speaking to New York Times film critic Janet Maslin, had said, "There's an actress who everybody loves now: Sydney Sweeney. I don't get [her]. I was watching [Anyone But You]... I watched this unwatchable movie—sorry to people who love this...romantic comedy where they hate each other." "I said to my class, 'Explain this girl to me. She's not pretty, she can't act. Why is she so hot?'" Baum is an adjunct professor at USC.
Regret
Baum has reportedly expressed regret over comments about Sweeney
Baum is known for her contributions to films like Dead Ringers, Father of the Bride, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Kicking and Screaming, and Snow Falling on Cedars, among others. Additionally, TMZ recently reported that she is "already expressing regret over the whole thing" and "wishes she never would've made her original comments." However, Baum has not issued an updated statement yet.
Success
Sweeney continues to thrive despite criticism
Despite the criticism, Sweeney has been tasting success in Hollywood. Following the triumph of Anyone But You, which grossed $218M worldwide, she recently produced and starred in the indie horror film, Immaculate, where she co-starred alongside La Casa De Papel actor Álvaro Morte. She is also known for projects such as Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood, Night Teeth, Madame Web, and Under the Silver Lake.