After Sydney Sweeney, Gavin Casalegno’s Dunkin’ ad faces heat over ‘genetics’-obsessed campaigns | Hollywood News No. 1

Also read: American Eagle breaks silence on Sydney Sweeney ad controversy, dismisses ‘absurd response’ as internet noise

People called the ad weirdly obsessed with white features. One TikTok user wrote, “It’s giving white is right, yeah no.” Another asked, “What’s the link between coffee and genetics?” Some even pointed out the actor’s blue eyes, just like Sydney Sweeney’s, which once again stirred up talk around stereotyped perfect traits. Others dragged Dunkin’, saying most of its stores are run by brown people, and this ad sends the opposite message. Casalegno, for his part, had said, “There’s just something about a summer sunset that makes everything feel a little better, and Dunkin’s Golden Hour Refresher really captures that vibe. It’s refreshing and kind of just lifts your mood. I’ve been a Dunkin’ fan for years, so teaming up again is such a fun way to celebrate summer.”

This new controversy comes just days after Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle campaign caused global uproar, with the brand stepping in to explain their goal was meant to support domestic violence prevention, claiming proceeds would go to a nonprofit. In her ad, she says, “Genes are passed down… my jeans are blue,” playing on the word ‘genes’ and ‘jeans’. But despite the brand’s attempt to tone things down, people weren’t convinced, especially with no real explanation for how the delivery came off as low-key pushing “racial superiority,” with not-so-subtle nods to eugenics and “ideal traits” like blonde hair and blue eyes.

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Also read: ‘Reaction to Sydney Sweeney’s ad is cancel culture run amok, reason why Donald Trump won,’ says White House representative

So now, with Gavin’s Dunkin’ ad dropping right after Sweeney’s, people are starting to see a pattern. Some online are even wondering if both brands used the same agency. Then there’s the other side of the internet, calling the backlash just another case of “liberals overreacting” or people being “too sensitive.” A few even mocked the whole Sweeney-Dunkin drama, saying things like, “Dunkin’ just sent the left into a full breakdown,” or “Don’t show this ad to the libs, they’re about to lose it again.”

Recently, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung weighed in on the American Eagle backlash and dismissed the entire reaction as “warped, moronic, and dense liberal thinking,” adding that this is exactly why Americans voted the way they did in 2024.

The world of celebrity endorsements is no stranger to controversies, but Dunkin’s recent run of advertisements has sparked a new debate in Hollywood and beyond. After Sydney Sweeney’s partnership with the coffee and donuts giant was scrutinized earlier this year, rising star Gavin Casalegno has now found himself in the middle of online criticism surrounding Dunkin’s latest marketing angle. The campaign, which some fans have labeled “genetics-obsessed,” has been accused of promoting unrealistic beauty ideals by focusing heavily on physical traits and “inherited perfection.”

Casalegno, known for his breakout role in The Summer I Turned Pretty, was recently featured in a Dunkin’ spot that leaned into playful commentary about “good genes” fueling confidence, energy, and even one’s morning coffee ritual. While intended to be lighthearted and quirky, many social media users felt the messaging pushed too far into glorifying looks and natural-born features rather than effort, personality, or lifestyle choices. Critics argue that in today’s cultural climate, where body positivity and inclusivity are at the forefront, such campaigns risk alienating diverse audiences.

This comes just months after Sydney Sweeney’s own Dunkin’ ad was met with similar scrutiny. In her case, the conversation revolved around the portrayal of women in advertising and whether brands were leaning too heavily on her image rather than celebrating her accomplishments as an actress. The overlap in backlash suggests that Dunkin may need to rethink its creative direction to align with evolving audience expectations.

Still, not all reactions have been negative. Many of Casalegno’s fans rallied behind him, pointing out that he likely had little control over the script or creative choices. They praised his charisma and natural screen presence, which undeniably added charm to the spot. Marketing experts also highlighted that controversy often generates visibility, and Dunkin’s campaign—whether loved or critiqued—has managed to trend online, which in itself is valuable for brand recall.

From a broader perspective, the debate over “genetics-obsessed” advertising taps into a larger cultural conversation. Consumers today expect brands to embrace inclusivity, diversity, and authenticity rather than relying on outdated beauty tropes. Dunkin, a household name synonymous with comfort and everyday coffee runs, may need to strike a balance between humor and sensitivity if it hopes to remain culturally relevant.

What makes this story Hollywood News No. 1 is the fascinating intersection of celebrity, branding, and cultural values. Sweeney and Casalegno represent a new generation of stars whose every move is amplified through social media, meaning campaigns that once went unnoticed are now dissected in real time. As the industry adapts, brands are under more pressure than ever to listen to audiences and evolve accordingly.

Whether this controversy fades quickly or sparks a deeper shift in Dunkin’s strategy remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: in today’s fast-moving entertainment and advertising landscape, even a coffee ad can become the center of a nationwide conversation.

The Controversy

The controversy around Gavin Casalegno’s Dunkin’ ad also highlights how drastically the rules of advertising have changed in the age of social media. A decade ago, most viewers would have enjoyed the commercial and moved on, but today, every campaign becomes a conversation piece dissected by millions on TikTok, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). This environment means that celebrities like Casalegno and Sydney Sweeney are under constant scrutiny—not just for their acting roles, but for the products they choose to represent and the messages those products carry.

Interestingly, marketing experts note that the criticism of “genetics-obsessed” campaigns may actually help brands recalibrate. Companies are increasingly moving toward “relatable marketing,” where everyday consumers, diverse body types, and authentic stories take center stage. If Dunkin takes this feedback constructively, it could open the door for future campaigns that spotlight customer stories, community vibes, or even humor-driven narratives without relying on physical perfection.

For Casalegno, this moment may also prove pivotal. Rather than damaging his reputation, the debate underscores just how influential he has become as a cultural figure. His fan base, particularly Gen Z viewers who admire him for his role in The Summer I Turned Pretty, have shown unwavering support, creating online threads that emphasize his talent, humility, and relatability. This groundswell of positivity may soften the backlash and even position him as a star who can weather media storms gracefully.

Moreover, this situation adds to an ongoing Hollywood trend: actors are increasingly expected to choose partnerships that align with their personal values. Just as audiences hold brands accountable, they also want to see celebrities collaborating on campaigns that feel authentic, uplifting, and inclusive. Moving forward, stars like Casalegno and Sweeney may have more leverage in influencing ad narratives, pushing companies to embrace more modern, positive storytelling.

Ultimately, the Dunkin ad may be remembered less for its controversy and more for the cultural shift it represents. In today’s media ecosystem, audiences want connection, not perfection—and both brands and celebrities are learning that lesson in real time.

The Gavin Casalegno–Dunkin controversy is also a telling case study in how younger audiences interpret marketing messages compared to older generations. In the past, advertising often relied on aspirational beauty standards—implying that glamour, perfection, or “good genetics” were part of what made a product desirable. However, today’s cultural climate is vastly different. Younger consumers, particularly Gen Z, tend to reject messaging that feels exclusionary or superficial. Instead, they value relatability, inclusivity, and individuality. That cultural shift is why Dunkin’s playful nod toward “genetics” didn’t land as intended—it collided with a generation that prefers authenticity over glossy ideals.

This doesn’t mean Casalegno himself is to blame. In fact, many industry experts have pointed out that his performance in the commercial was warm, engaging, and perfectly in line with the kind of fun persona Dunkin often tries to highlight. What’s really at stake is the creative direction of the campaign. Audiences today are extremely savvy—they can distinguish between an actor doing their job and a brand making questionable creative choices. That’s one reason why Gavin’s fans have rushed to his defense, ensuring his reputation remains intact.

Looking at the bigger picture, Dunkin is hardly the first brand to misstep with messaging. Over the years, numerous major companies—from fashion houses to beverage giants—have faced backlash for campaigns that were later deemed tone-deaf. The difference now is that the pace of criticism is instant. Within hours of a campaign launch, hashtags start trending, think pieces are written, and both celebrities and companies find themselves at the center of intense cultural debate. While this environment can be challenging, it also creates opportunities: brands can pivot faster, acknowledge feedback openly, and even turn controversies into moments of growth.

Casalegno’s involvement also raises another interesting layer: the role of rising stars in shaping brand identities. Unlike long-established actors who may be seen as “safe” choices, emerging celebrities like him bring fresh energy and cultural relevance. That energy is why brands like Dunkin are eager to collaborate—they want to tap into the fandoms and youthful appeal these actors embody. However, that same cultural relevance means every campaign is magnified. The stakes are higher, and the risks of misalignment become more pronounced.

Sydney Sweeney’s earlier experience with Dunkin reinforces this point. Her ad also drew mixed reactions, with some praising her charm while others criticized the campaign’s reliance on appearance-driven messaging. When two young stars in succession face similar criticism, it signals not just a one-off problem but a deeper trend. Consumers are effectively telling brands: “We want ads that feel inclusive, genuine, and reflective of today’s values—not just shiny portrayals of beauty.”

At the same time, it’s worth noting that not all the buzz is negative. Dunkin’s ads, controversial or not, are sparking conversations across Hollywood and the marketing industry. In a crowded entertainment landscape, where thousands of brands compete for attention, even critical conversations can elevate visibility. Some analysts argue that being part of cultural discourse—even if polarizing—is better than being ignored. In this sense, both Sweeney and Casalegno’s campaigns have succeeded in making Dunkin a talking point well beyond its coffee and donuts.

For Casalegno personally, this may even prove to be a long-term advantage. His involvement in such a high-profile campaign cements his status as one of Hollywood’s rising names. The way his fans have defended him online also demonstrates the strength of his growing influence. If anything, he comes out of this moment not as a casualty of controversy, but as a figure who can generate headlines, inspire loyalty, and stand strong amid criticism.

Ultimately, what makes this story Hollywood News No. 1 is that it’s more than a coffee ad—it’s a reflection of how entertainment, branding, and culture collide in 2025. Dunkin, Sweeney, and Casalegno are now part of a broader discussion about what modern advertising should look like. The lesson for brands is clear: authenticity, inclusivity, and relatability aren’t optional—they’re essential. And for celebrities, the takeaway is equally powerful: their partnerships carry immense cultural weight, capable of shaping public discourse in ways that go far beyond a simple product promotion.

If Dunkin can learn from this moment and reframe its approach, it has the chance to lead the way in showing how legacy brands can stay relevant to new generations. And if stars like Gavin Casalegno continue to balance their rising fame with authenticity, they’ll remain central figures in the cultural conversations shaping Hollywood’s future.

The comparisons between Gavin Casalegno and Sydney Sweeney’s Dunkin ads also reveal how gender plays a role in the public’s reaction. When Sydney’s ad was released, much of the conversation revolved around how Hollywood often objectifies women in advertising, relying on their looks rather than their professional achievements. In Casalegno’s case, however, the critique has leaned more toward the brand’s obsession with “genetics” as a theme, rather than directly on him. This distinction highlights how differently audiences scrutinize male and female stars, even when they are part of the same brand campaign.

At the same time, Sydney’s involvement created a precedent. Because she was one of the first high-profile young actors to face backlash under this Dunkin strategy, it set the tone for how people would view future ads. By the time Casalegno’s spot aired, audiences were already primed to notice similar themes. In some ways, this shows that the criticism isn’t entirely about the actors—it’s about the brand’s creative direction.

Still, both Sydney and Gavin have managed to emerge from these discussions with their reputations intact. If anything, they’ve proven that today’s Hollywood stars can handle controversy while still connecting with fans who admire them for far more than just their looks.