On August 20, 2025, Euphoria star Sydney Sweeney faced renewed criticism for defending her controversial Dr. Squatch bathwater soap by referencing a similar product tied to co-star Jacob Elordi, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. The remarks, which some fans called out as throwing Elordi “under the bus,” have reignited debates about her marketing choices.
Last month, Sweeney partnered with Dr. Squatch to release a limited-edition soap infused with her actual bathwater, which sold out rapidly despite online outrage labelling it “creepy.” In a Wall Street Journal interview, Sweeney defended the product, noting, “They all loved the idea of Jacob Elordi’s bathwater,” referencing a January 2024 candle by Side Hustle Vibes inspired by Elordi’s Saltburn scene. Unlike Sweeney’s soap, Elordi’s candle did not contain his bathwater and was not endorsed by him.
Sydney Sweeney Calls Out Female Fans Over Bathwater Soap Hate https://t.co/5fghX1WU4D pic.twitter.com/q7jHumG5HC
— TMZ (@TMZ) August 21, 2025Social media erupted with criticism, with fans on X accusing Sweeney of unfairly involving Elordi. One user wrote, “Alienating your female fanbase and throwing your co-worker under the bus over a candle sold without his permission is so funny.” Another clarified, “Jacob Elordi wasn’t selling his bathwater; a company not associated with him was.” Some defended Sweeney, noting a double standard: “Women criticise other women’s marketing while supporting the same from men they find attractive.”
Sydney Sweeney comments on the backlash from her bathwater soap:
“It was mainly the girls making comments about it, which I thought was really interesting. They all loved the idea of Jacob Elordi’s bathwater.”
(https://t.co/5xcNaAF15H) pic.twitter.com/FP1rmlnfy0
— Pop Base (@PopBase) August 20, 2025Sweeney’s comments follow backlash over her American Eagle denim campaign, criticised for its “great jeans” tagline, which some labelled a racialised dog whistle. She has not addressed this controversy directly. Despite the criticism, the rapid sellout of her bathwater soap underscores her market appeal as a Hollywood and fashion influencer.
Sweeney remains a powerhouse, balancing roles in Euphoria and upcoming films like The Housemaid (December 2025) with high-profile brand deals. Her bold marketing, while divisive, keeps her in the spotlight, with fans watching how she navigates ongoing controversies.
