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Sydney Sweeney is set to visit Long Island next month when she’ll be honored at the Hamptons International Film Festival (HIFF), but she’s unlikely to discuss her jeans.
The Emmy-nominated actress — and recent face of American Eagle’s “great jeans” campaign, which used a pun on “genes” that critics said played into race and beauty stereotypes — made headlines again at the Toronto International Film Festival this week when she shut down questions about the controversy, saying she was there only to talk about her new film.
Now, Sweeney is bringing that film to the East End. Festival organizers announced Friday that she will receive the Achievement in Acting Award at the 2025 HIFF, where she stars in the U.S. premiere of “Christy,” director David Michôd’s new biographical drama.
Sweeney portrays pioneering boxer Christy Martin in the festival’s centerpiece selection, which screens on Oct. 4 in East Hampton. The story follows Martin’s unlikely rise from small-town West Virginia fighter to national sensation, while also confronting her struggles outside the ring, including family tensions and a volatile marriage to her trainer-turned-husband, played by Ben Foster.
“Christy” also stars Merritt Wever, Katy O’Brian and Ethan Embry.
“‘Christy’ anchors the festival with its daring artistry and gives us the opportunity to honor the luminous Sydney Sweeney,” said David Nugent, HIFF’s chief creative officer.
Sweeney will speak at event
Sweeney, best known for her roles in “Euphoria” and “The White Lotus,” will take part in a post-screening conversation. She follows Demi Moore, who was honored with HIFF’s acting award last year.
Organizers also announced that the festival’s closing night will feature the world premiere of “Merrily We Roll Along,” a filmed stage version of the Tony Award-winning musical directed by Maria Friedman. It stars Jonathan Groff, Daniel Radcliffe and Lindsay Mendez.
The 33rd annual HIFF runs Oct. 3–13 with screenings and events across the Hamptons.
For the festival’s film schedule and other details, visit hamptonsfilmfest.org.
Top photo: (Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP)
