Kim Novak, now 93 years old, has voiced strong objections to Sydney Sweeney’s casting in the upcoming biopic ‘Scandalous’, which focuses on her 1957 romance with legendary entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. Novak’s concerns center around the film’s portrayal of their relationship, particularly its emphasis on the sexual aspects.
In a recent statement, Novak remarked, “I would never have approved” of Sweeney’s role, expressing her discomfort with the actress’s physical appearance. She noted, “She sticks out so much above the waist”, suggesting that Sweeney’s image does not align with how she wishes to be represented.
The film, directed by Colman Domingo, has been in development since October 2024, and is set to feature David Jonsson as Sammy Davis Jr. Novak’s relationship with Davis was not just a romance; it faced significant external pressures, including racism and threats from Hollywood executives.
Interestingly, Sweeney honored Novak at the 2025 Met Gala by channeling her iconic style, which may have added to the complexity of their relationship. However, Novak remains skeptical about the film’s intentions, stating, “There’s no way it wouldn’t be a sexual relationship because Sydney Sweeney looks sexy all the time”.
Novak has also stated, “I don’t think the relationship was scandalous”, indicating her desire for a more nuanced portrayal of her past. As the film progresses towards its release, observers are left wondering how these criticisms will impact its reception.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes to the casting or storyline in light of Novak’s comments. The film aims to shed light on a significant yet tumultuous chapter in Hollywood history, but it appears that the path forward may be fraught with challenges.