Kim Novak, now 93 years old, has expressed strong disapproval of Sydney Sweeney’s casting in the upcoming biopic ‘Scandalous’, which aims to portray her 1957 romance with legendary entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. Novak’s concerns center around the film’s potential focus on the sexual aspects of her relationship, stating, “I would never have approved” of Sweeney’s involvement.
Novak’s criticism comes at a time when Sweeney, just 28, has gained significant attention in Hollywood. The actress previously honored Novak at the 2025 Met Gala by channeling her iconic style, but their relationship appears to have soured with this new casting decision. Novak remarked, “She sticks out so much above the waist,” highlighting her discomfort with Sweeney’s physical portrayal.
Directed by Colman Domingo, ‘Scandalous’ is set against the backdrop of a tumultuous era in Hollywood, where Novak and Davis’s romance faced external pressures, including racism and threats from industry executives. Their relationship, which blossomed on ‘The Steve Allen Show’, was not just a personal affair but also a reflection of the societal challenges of the time.
Novak further stated, “There’s no way it wouldn’t be a sexual relationship because Sydney Sweeney looks sexy all the time,” indicating her belief that the film may sensationalize their connection rather than portray it authentically. This sentiment echoes her earlier assertion that she does not view their relationship as scandalous.
As the film progresses through its development, which was first reported in October 2024, observers are left to ponder how Novak’s criticisms will influence its portrayal of the historical figures involved. With the film’s release date yet to be confirmed, the industry watches closely to see how this controversy unfolds.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes to the casting or direction of the film in light of Novak’s statements. The tension between preserving the integrity of historical relationships and the demands of modern storytelling continues to be a hot topic in Hollywood.