Learning from ‘Barbie’: A Sydney Sweeney Incident Highlights Ongoing Challenges with Online Trolls

It has become an all-too-frequent scenario: a woman steps onto the red carpet, her make-up artfully done, only to later share an unfiltered, make-up-free image. Immediately, some online detractor labels her as “catfishing.” This cycle continues endlessly.

Such occurrences often involve some of the most stunning figures in the entertainment industry, shining a spotlight on the unrealistic beauty standards imposed upon women. The latest target of this scrutiny is Sydney Sweeney, the star of Anyone But You, who is celebrated for her striking looks. Yet, the moment candid paparazzi shots or make-up-less selfies surface, critics feel emboldened to judge her appearance.

Let me clarify: Sydney Sweeney is undeniably **gorgeous** in every picture where critics supposedly find flaws. However, her natural looks seem to spark outrage among some, who view her glamorous appearances as deceptive. This sentiment echoes a broader societal issue that even found resonance in the recent film Barbie, highlighting a troubling narrative where women are often deemed insufficient.

The latest criticism aimed at Sweeney involved a side-by-side comparison of a glammed-up photo versus one showing her bare-faced, accompanied by the remark, “Sydney Sweeney without make-up is worse than I thought.” Fortunately, a community note called out this statement as sexist and “downright rude.” However, I contend that it reflects a more significant issue: it illustrates a disconnect among those who perpetuate these narratives, revealing a lack of genuine appreciation for women.

Consider this: the assertion that a woman without make-up is a “catfish” is steeped in sexism. Furthermore, when individuals fail to recognize Sweeney’s beauty in her natural state, it raises questions about their understanding of women. It’s as if they are unable to appreciate women’s authentic selves, especially those who embrace their make-up-less moments.

“It is literally impossible to be a woman.”

This notion resonates strongly in Barbie, particularly through Gloria’s (America Ferrera) poignant message to Barbie (Margot Robbie).She elucidates that womanhood is multifaceted—one can be extraordinarily beautiful yet still grapple with feelings of inadequacy due to societal perceptions. Sydney Sweeney embodies this complexity; her inherent beauty is apparent regardless of her make-up choice. The dilemma lies in the presumption that wearing make-up somehow signifies deceit, a concern that unfortunately plagues women universally.

Similarly, Sabrina Carpenter has recently been subjected to online harassment questioning her appearance in comparison to her glam looks. This blatant disregard for the artistry of make-up reveals a misunderstanding among those commenting, pointing to a significant gap in appreciation for women’s choices.

Ultimately, this brings us back to the salient monologue in Barbie. The struggle of being a woman is real and relentless. If a woman chooses to forego make-up, she risks being labeled unattractive, while wearing it may lead to accusations of deception. When will these unattainable beauty standards come to an end? When will society recognize that women are enough, just as they are?

It bewildering that even women as radiant as Sydney Sweeney face such relentless judgment. In my conversations with Adria Arjona, an equally stunning individual inside and out, she shared her insecurities related to her roles. Sadly, this narrative paints a bleak picture for women across the board. Even those deemed the most beautiful are confronted with the harsh reality that they are considered less than enough, a troubling pattern that needs to change.

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