Hollywood actor Sydney Sweeney finds herself potentially facing serious legal consequences following a provocative promotional stunt at one of Los Angeles' most famous landmarks. The Euphoria star reportedly climbed the iconic Hollywood sign to hang a clothesline of bras, sparking concerns about criminal trespassing and vandalism charges.
Nighttime Stunt at Historic Landmark
According to footage obtained by entertainment outlet TMZ, the 28-year-old actor ventured to the Los Angeles landmark during nighttime hours for what appears to be a promotional shoot. Dressed in black cargo pants, a black hoodie and a black hat, Sweeney was filmed climbing to the top of the sign's 45-foot-tall letters before hanging bras from her upcoming lingerie line, Syrn, across the famous structure.
Permit Problems and Legal Concerns
While Sweeney's production team reportedly obtained the proper permit from Film LA to shoot at the location, they apparently failed to secure prior approval from the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to physically touch or climb the letters themselves. This oversight could have significant legal ramifications for both the actor and her production team.
"There was no permission granted to do this, as is required," the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce told TMZ in a statement. Neither the chamber nor Sweeney's representatives responded to requests for comment from The Independent regarding the incident.
Potential Legal Consequences
Individuals caught climbing or decorating the Hollywood sign typically face immediate arrest at the scene. Trespassing on the restricted site can result in misdemeanor charges, which carry potential penalties including:
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Jail time of up to six months
- Criminal records for those involved
Protected Landmark with Strict Security
The Hollywood sign, originally constructed in 1923 and donated to the city in 1944, sits on public land within Griffith Park. Despite its location on public property, the landmark is trademarked by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and managed by the non-profit Hollywood Sign Trust, creating complex legal protections.
The area surrounding the sign is strictly protected with multiple security measures including:
- Remote surveillance cameras monitoring the site
- Eight-foot fencing restricting access
- Motion sensors detecting unauthorized movement
- Regular patrols by Los Angeles Police and Fire Departments
- Additional monitoring by park rangers
Contradictory Official Responses
While the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has indicated potential legal action, law enforcement responses have been mixed. The Los Angeles Police Department told Fox News Digital that no investigation has been launched into the incident because "no crime was committed" based on their current assessment.
This contradictory information leaves Sweeney's legal situation uncertain, as the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce maintains the authority to press charges for unauthorized access to the trademarked landmark.
Promotional Context and Brand Background
The controversial stunt was designed to promote Sweeney's upcoming lingerie line, Syrn, which is scheduled to launch according to teaser materials featuring the actor. This marks another high-profile promotional campaign for Sweeney, who previously faced backlash for her controversial American Eagle advertising campaign.
The Syrn brand reportedly receives financial backing from investment firm Coatue, which counts prominent investors including Jeff Bezos and his wife Lauren Sánchez among its supporters. The timing of the Hollywood sign incident, occurring just before the brand's scheduled launch, has raised questions about the boundaries of promotional activities at protected historical sites.
As authorities and trademark holders consider their response, this incident highlights the ongoing tension between celebrity promotional activities and the protection of culturally significant landmarks, with potential legal consequences that could extend far beyond typical publicity stunts.
