Sydney Sweeney is a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, but she reveals that public perceptions often miss the mark.
The 28-year-old actress, known for her glamorous and daring roles, is set to portray real-life boxer Christy Salters Martin in the 2025 film Christy. This role resonates deeply with Sweeney, reflecting her inner self more than any previous character.
In an interview with Sports Illustrated on December 9, Sweeney discussed her connection to Salters Martin, 57, who faced public scrutiny while enduring an abusive relationship privately. Sweeney noted, “The media version of who you are is not always who you truly are.”
When asked about misconceptions people have about her, Sweeney simply stated, “A lot of things,” without further elaboration.
Having faced criticism regarding her appearance, Sweeney embraced the role in Christy to showcase a different side of herself. Instead of playing a stereotypical role, she donned boxing gloves to depict Salters Martin’s harrowing experience with her ex-husband, Jim Martin, who shot her in 2010. She survived and now shares her story to help others.
Sweeney chose to train in Idaho, away from the public eye, utilizing a makeshift boxing gym in her grandmother’s shed. “I wanted to disappear and fully immerse myself,” she explained.
Sweeney gained 30 pounds for the role, utilizing creatine, Uncrustables, and protein shakes, while mastering kickboxing and MMA techniques. She rarely used a stunt double for her scenes.
“I wanted to genuinely fight,” Sweeney shared, adding that she enjoyed the sport so much she considered training with Salters Martin beyond Hollywood.
Despite Christy earning only $1.3 million during its opening weekend in November, Sweeney is proud of the film’s impact. “If it encourages even one woman to seek safety, we’ve succeeded,” she stated on Instagram.
Sweeney’s participation in a controversial American Eagle campaign titled “Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans” sparked backlash over perceived eugenics implications. Both she and the brand denied these claims, emphasizing the intent was to promote jeans.
Addressing the controversy, Sweeney told People on December 5, “I was surprised by the reaction. I love the jeans and the brand.” She clarified that she does not support the views some associated with the campaign.
“I aim to unite people, not divide them,” Sweeney added, acknowledging her silence on the matter had widened the divide. She expressed hope for more unity in the coming year.
Sweeney also dispelled rumors of cosmetic surgery during an interview with Allure alongside Amanda Seyfried on December 4. “I’ve never had work done,” she stated, citing her fear of needles.
She addressed comparisons of her teenage photos to her current appearance, attributing differences to professional makeup and lighting. “Social media can be misleading,” she concluded.
