Following a chilly reception on the red carpet at the premiere of the third season of Euphoria, Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney sparked a buzz on social media.
Alongside their co-stars, the two actors appeared together at the TCL Chinese Theatre IMAX. However, Zendaya, 29, chose not to engage with the Trump supporter on the red carpet, suggesting that there was still a flicker of affection between them.
Rumors have persisted for some time about a falling-out between the pair, with speculation that Sydney had her eyes on Tom Holland — whom Zendaya is believed to have married earlier this year — on top of her controversial political views.
In reaction to what appeared to be a slight, a viral video circulated showing Zendaya chatting warmly with Hunter Schafer, while ignoring Sydney.
A Twitter user shared, “In this new clip, Zendaya quickly and happily greets Maude Apatow, Sydney Sweeney, and Hunter Schafer,” followed by the video. Many fans attention was drawn to scenes where Zendaya interacted with Schafer while seemingly avoiding Sweeney, pointing to reported ongoing tensions.
Sydney Sweeney, 28, was reportedly seen liking tweets describing Tom Holland as “hot,” fueling claims that the rivalry had deep roots. It’s well known that she flirted with him when he visited the Euphoria set, and she has been known to express admiration for him publicly.
Further footage appeared to show the pair deliberately avoiding each other after the event, strengthening reports of disagreements.
One social media comment read, “So she wasn’t serious about avoiding press with Sydney Sweeney, LOL,” while another user observed, “Zendaya showed up and then got straight back into her car.”
Fans dissected related videos, with one noting, “Look at this: Zendaya greets Hunter, gives her a hug, and Sydney is watching Hunter in the background. The moment Zendaya faces her, Sydney nervously looks the other way, LOL.” Another tweet pointed out that many fans are already piecing together the rivalry from these clips.
The origins of this tension are believed to trace back to when Zendaya and Tom Holland first started dating. Sources claim Sydney was seen “flirtatiously interacting” with Holland on set and was active on social media liking posts criticizing him for his looks.
According to insiders, “Euphoria” producers are aware that the pair don’t get along. Previous reports highlighted Sydney’s flirtations with Tom, revealing her feelings for him.
This red carpet drama reminded fans of Sydney’s past actions, with one commenting, “Rumors suggest the issues are linked to Sydney’s controversial ad campaign and past social media activity about Tom Holland being attractive.” Questions about professionalism versus personal feelings have also been raised, especially considering Sydney’s public displays of affection.
Sydney’s political stance, which has earned her the nickname “MAGA Barbie,” has also been a source of division. She publicly responded in January after her campaign with American Eagle became a political hot potato, pushing back against criticism.
She shared an image arriving at the “Euphoria” Season 3 premiere, which was widely circulated. Her summer campaign for jeans also stirred controversy, with critics calling it “Nazi propaganda” for referencing “good genes” while featuring a blonde, blue-eyed model.
Following these events, it was revealed that Sweeney is registered as a Republican, leading to disapproval from some on the left. Former President Donald Trump even commented humorously, “Now I love her ad.” Later, her appearance on a talk show, where her vintage-style makeover drew comparisons to a Fox News personality, sparked mockery.
Sweeney later clarified, “I’ve never claimed to be involved in politics; I just want to focus on acting and art.” She expressed frustration over being labeled or stereotyped, stating, “People project their assumptions onto me, but I can’t control that.” When asked if she would correct misconceptions, she responded, “I haven’t figured out how, because I’m not hateful. If I do, they say I’m just trying to improve my image. The truth is, I can’t win everyone’s approval, but I know who I am.”
Guided by her own principle that “love always leads,” she believes everyone should be treated kindly. She cites respecting everyone around her as fundamental, recalling how she admired Brad Pitt’s camaraderie with crew members during filming — emphasizing respect and kindness.
Despite her firm stance, Sweeney maintains she will not change her views publicly or alter her political opinions.
