Amid the proceedings of the 77th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday, a quip directed at actress Sydney Sweeney appears to have escaped widespread notice.
Host Nate Bargatze, serving as master of ceremonies at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, invoked the controversy that arose earlier this summer concerning Sweeney’s American Eagle advertising campaign.
In July, the 28-year-old actress became the subject of public scrutiny after the denim brand launched a promotion highlighting the quality of her “genetics,” a phrase that provoked debate over its implicit connotations.
Bargatze, aged 46, made a subtle allusion to the matter when, while displaying his denim tuxedo to the audience, he remarked: “I have a blue jean tux on for some reason.”
Bargatze attempted to expand upon the bit, remarking: “We had, like, a joke. There’s a cummerbund, and I forgot what it — I don’t know.”
The intent of the jest then became apparent as he proceeded to introduce actress Sydney Sweeney, stating: “Alright, please welcome two-time Emmy nominee Sydney Sweeney.”
The effort, however, was met with limited approval. Certain online commentators criticized the attempt, with one describing the gag as “more confusing than clever.” Another observer wrote: “At the Emmy Awards, Nate Bargatze’s attempted humor fell flat … as he introduced Sydney Sweeney, who, dressed in a formal gown, seemingly ignored a punchline that missed the mark altogether.” A further comment labeled Bargatze a “terrible host,” adding that he “dressed down to land a joke and then … didn’t even try to land the joke.”
An insider informed The Hollywood Reporter that multiple attendees failed to discern the intended reference. The publication further cited a backstage source who conceded that the moment was met with a tepid reception.
Meanwhile, Sweeney, born in Spokane, Washington, appeared in a striking red Oscar de la Renta gown, which prompted speculation online that her sartorial choice was intended as a political statement. One user remarked: “She looks good but we all know why she chose red.” The actress subsequently fulfilled her role as presenter for the award in the category of Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie.#newsafr0_
