Dunkin’s new summer advertisement, featuring actor Gavin Casalegno, is facing significant criticism over its use of the word “genetics,” drawing comparisons to a recent controversial American Eagle campaign starring Sydney Sweeney.
Dunkin’s New “King of Summer” Ad Sparks Debate
The latest ad for Dunkin’s Golden Hour Refresher stars Gavin Casalegno, known from “The Summer I Turned Pretty.” In the 30-second spot, Casalegno relaxes by a pool, stating, “Look, I didn’t ask to be the king of summer. It just happened. This tan? Genetics.”
He further adds that a “color analysis” confirmed him as a “golden summer,” tying his natural glow to the beverage. Dunkin’ described the ad as a “playful social video” where Casalegno “claims his crown” with “effortlessly sunny energy.”
Why “Genetics” Caused Uproar
The specific mention of “genetics” immediately sparked a backlash online. Critics quickly pointed out what they perceived as an odd obsession with “white traits” and “perfect features.” Many found the link between a beverage and genetics confusing and unsettling.
Social media users expressed frustration, with one TikTok comment stating, “It’s giving white is right, yeah no.” Others highlighted the actor’s blue eyes, which, like Sydney Sweeney’s, became a focal point for discussions about idealized beauty standards. Some also noted the irony, given that many Dunkin’ stores are owned and operated by people of color.
Echoes of Sydney Sweeney’s “Perfect Genes” Campaign
This controversy follows closely on the heels of a similar uproar surrounding Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle campaign. Her ad for “Perfect Genes” jeans also played on the word “genes” (genetics), with Sweeney stating, “Genes are passed down… my jeans are blue.”
That campaign was heavily criticized for perceived undertones of racial superiority and eugenics, particularly with implied nods to “ideal traits” like blonde hair and blue eyes. Despite American Eagle’s explanation that the campaign supported domestic violence prevention, many remained unconvinced by its messaging.
Is There a Pattern?
The back-to-back controversies have led some online observers to speculate whether Dunkin’ and American Eagle might have used the same marketing agency. The repeated focus on “genetics” and “ideal traits” has fueled a broader conversation about advertising ethics and unintentional messaging.
Conversely, a segment of the internet has dismissed the backlash as “overreacting” or “being too sensitive.” White House Communications Director Steven Cheung even weighed in on the American Eagle controversy, calling the reaction “warped, moronic, and dense liberal thinking,” linking it to broader political divides.
- Dunkin’s new ad features Gavin Casalegno attributing his tan to “genetics,” sparking public criticism.
- The ad’s controversy mirrors a recent American Eagle campaign with Sydney Sweeney, which also used “genes” in a way that drew accusations of promoting “ideal” or “white” traits.
- Online reactions range from outrage over perceived racial undertones to dismissal as “over-sensitivity.”
These recent advertising missteps highlight the delicate balance brands must strike in their messaging, especially in an era where societal values and interpretations of content are under constant scrutiny.
