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Sydney Sweeney always harboured a deep-seated aspiration to become an actor. Recalling her journey on the “20 Questions: On Deadline” podcast in 2022, she expressed that her desire for acting seemed innate, without a singular moment of doubt.
Sweeney’s trajectory in Hollywood has been nothing short of meteoric. From her early days in acting as a child, she has blossomed into a highly sought-after talent in her twenties. Her exceptional acting prowess has been showcased in hit series such as “The Handmaid’s Tale,” “The White Lotus,” and her iconic role as Cassie in HBO Max’s “Euphoria.” Yet, Sweeney’s influence transcends television. As of now, she is slated to star alongside Dakota Johnson and Emma Roberts in Marvel’s “Madame Web,” and is set to feature in the eagerly anticipated romantic comedy “Anyone But You,” alongside Glen Powell. Undoubtedly, Sweeney stands as one of Hollywood’s most notable success stories in recent years.
From her modest upbringing in a rural enclave of Spokane, Washington, to her ascent in the entertainment industry, acting alongside esteemed A-listers, the transformation of Sydney Sweeney is nothing short of remarkable.
Raised in a small town in Spokane, Washington, Sydney Sweeney’s parents, Lisa and Steven Sweeney pursued careers in law and hospitality, respectively. As a big sister to her brother, Trent Sweeney, who also dabbles in acting, Sydney’s chosen path may not have been what her parents initially envisioned. Nonetheless, she steadfastly believed in her calling.
Reflecting on her journey in a 2019 “BUILD Series” interview, Sweeney revealed that her parents initially held reservations about her acting ambitions. Their scepticism stemmed from her upbringing in a small town, where pursuing such dreams seemed improbable. However, Sweeney’s determination knew no bounds.
At the age of 12, an opportunity arose when a film production came to her town, holding auditions for the indie movie “ZMD: Zombies of Mass Destruction” in 2009. Recognizing it as a pivotal moment, Sweeney presented her parents with a comprehensive five-year plan, persuading them to allow her to audition. Her effort paid off, and she secured her first role. Nevertheless, success did not come without its challenges.
In 2022, Sweeney recounted that her family, including her parents and brother, relocated from Washington to Los Angeles to support her burgeoning career. Despite landing roles in television shows, the Sweeney family faced financial difficulties, ultimately losing their homes both in Washington and Los Angeles. They even found themselves residing in a hotel for nine months. Sadly, her parents eventually parted ways, and Sweeney’s envisioned five-year plan did not unfold as expected.
Sweeney embarked on her acting journey with minor roles in notable TV shows after her debut in the 2009 zombie film. Her earliest television appearances included episodes of “Heroes” and “Criminal Minds” in the same year. Over the subsequent decade, she accrued more than two dozen roles across various television shows, shorts, and movies, including the 2011 Lifetime TV movie “The Bling Ring” and a 2014 appearance on “Grey’s Anatomy.” Notably, 2018 marked a significant turning point in her career, as she secured roles in three major television shows.
Sydney Sweeney’s breakout moment came with the 2018 Netflix series “Everything Sucks!” The coming-of-age show depicted a group of teenagers navigating high school life in the late ’90s while undertaking a filmmaking project. Sweeney’s portrayal of Emaline earned her recognition for her first major television role. Concurrently, she was also cast in HBO’s “Sharp Objects,” where she displayed her versatility by embracing a darker character alongside a prominent co-star.
Sweeney continued her upward trajectory in 2019, starring in “Big Time Adolescence” and “Clementine.” However, her most defining role came with the portrayal of Cassie Howard in HBO’s acclaimed series “Euphoria.” The show, which garnered immense popularity, elevated Sweeney’s status in the industry. Her performance as Cassie, a character imbued with complexity and relatability, resonated strongly with audiences. In 2022, Sweeney received an Emmy nomination for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her outstanding work on “Euphoria,” while her co-star Zendaya secured the award for lead actress.
Beyond her remarkable acting career, Sydney Sweeney’s diverse interests and talents extend into the realm of sports. Growing up, she immersed herself in various athletic pursuits, including soccer, snow skiing, golf, softball, wakeboarding, ballet, and dirt bike riding. Notably, her passion for mixed martial arts (MMA) ignited at the age of 13, offering her a sense of empowerment and capability. While she achieved notable success in MMA competitions, she eventually opted to prioritize acting to avoid potential injuries.
In addition to her prowess in acting and sports, Sweeney possesses an unexpected skill set—she is a proficient mechanic. Fueled by a longstanding fascination with cars, she delved into the world of automotive restoration during the pandemic. Her endeavour culminated in the restoration of a 1969 Ford Bronco, a project she documented on her TikTok page, @syds_garage. Sweeney’s multifaceted abilities reflect her dynamic approach to life.
Sydney Sweeney’s personal life is marked by a commitment to maintaining a grounded perspective. She has chosen not to pursue romantic relationships within the entertainment industry, opting for a partner outside of the spotlight. Her preference for a deep, enduring friendship forms the cornerstone of her romantic aspirations. Since 2018, she has been in a relationship with Jonathan Davino, a restaurateur from Chicago. The couple, despite their engagement, maintains a low-key public presence. Sweeney’s contemplation of motherhood further exemplifies her forward-looking outlook.
In 2023, Sweeney embarked on a new professional venture, co-starring with Glen Powell in the rom-com “Anyone But You.” While rumours circulated about a potential off-screen romance, Sweeney took a lighthearted stance on the speculation, emphasizing the joy of working alongside Powell. The film’s release is slated for December 2023.
Sydney Sweeney’s creative ventures extend beyond acting. In 2020, she established her own production company, Fifty-Fifty Films, signalling her foray into production. This endeavour has led to her involvement in diverse projects, including the HBO Max series “The Players Club,” in which she stars alongside her close friend Halsey. As an executive producer, Sweeney has played a pivotal role in “Anyone But You,” and she is set to both produce and star in the 2024 horror film “Immaculate.”
Sweeney’s impact in the entertainment industry shows no sign of waning. Her calendar for 2024 is replete with major projects, including her induction into the Marvel Cinematic Universe with “Madame Web” and her collaboration with Julianne Moore and Domhnall Gleeson in “Echo Valley.” Moreover, she is slated to tackle a range of roles in productions such as “The Caretaker,” “Barbarella,” and “The Registration.” Sweeney is poised to continue leaving an indelible mark in the world of entertainment.
At just 26 years old, Sydney Sweeney’s remarkable achievements underscore her passion, versatility, and dedication to her craft. With a dynamic portfolio of roles and a burgeoning role behind the camera, S
Sweeney is poised to shape the future of the entertainment industry. Her ability to thrive in the midst of multiple projects reflects her affinity for the exhilarating chaos of her profession.