Sydney Sweeney Reveals Secrets Behind Transformative Roles in W Magazine

MANHATTAN, New York — Sydney Sweeney, the 27-year-old actress known for her role as Cassie in HBO’s Euphoria, stepped into the spotlight for her first cover shoot with W Magazine. On a spring afternoon, she expressed her enthusiasm about embracing characters unlike herself, stating, ‘I like the feeling of transforming.’

Following a red-eye flight from Los Angeles, where she is filming Euphoria’s third season, Sweeney showed her commitment to her craft. ‘I had about three and a half months of training’ for her role as Christy Martin in an upcoming biopic, she shared. For this demanding role, Sweeney gained over 30 pounds, meticulously following a rigorous training schedule that included weightlifting and kickboxing.

Film director David Michôd praised her dedication, noting, ‘Sydney trained her butt off to play the part.’ Martin is a significant figure in women’s boxing history, being the first woman featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated and fighting alongside prominent male boxers.

During the interview, Sweeney also reflected on her experiences in Euphoria, where she received an Emmy nomination after her character’s emotional breakdown. However, she admitted frustration over how nudity in the series overshadowed her performance. ‘I felt like people were finally recognizing the hard work I’ve been doing,’ she noted, expressing her desire for recognition based on talent rather than appearances.

As she transitioned between various roles for the magazine shoot, Sweeney embraced her ability to adapt. Each character, from a fashion-forward Little Red Riding Hood to a romantic lead in Anyone But You, demonstrated her range and research-driven approach. Director Michael Pearce commented on her versatility, remarking, ‘With Sydney, the work isn’t the be-all and end-all — she’s great at everything she decides to do.’

The actress, who grew up near Spokane, Washington, engaged in various sports and activities, showcasing her passion for life. She admitted that she would challenge herself by taking on roles that scared her, stating, ‘If something scares me, then usually I’m going to do it.’

Sweeney’s reflections highlight her deep commitment to storytelling in acting, whether through physical transformations or confronting societal perceptions of female roles. As the interview concluded, the actress prepared for her next look, embodying the spirit of a roller derby queen, showcasing her candid enthusiasm for each character she creates.

As Sweeney continues to rise in Hollywood, she remains unapologetic about her choices in both life and art, reinforcing her commitment to portraying authentic narratives.