In a striking turn of events, 93-year-old Kim Novak has publicly criticized the casting of 28-year-old Sydney Sweeney in the upcoming biopic ‘Scandalous’, which aims to portray her 1957 romance with legendary entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. Novak’s discontent highlights the generational and contextual differences surrounding the film’s portrayal of their relationship.
Novak, who has remained a prominent figure in Hollywood, expressed her concerns that the film may overly emphasize the sexual aspects of her relationship with Davis. “I would never have approved,” she stated, emphasizing her discomfort with Sweeney’s casting. Novak further remarked, “She sticks out so much above the waist,” pointing to her belief that Sweeney’s public persona does not align with the nuanced reality of her past.
The film, directed by Colman Domingo, has been in development since October 2024, and is set to feature David Jonsson as Sammy Davis Jr. This project has stirred significant interest, especially following Sweeney’s homage to Novak at the 2025 Met Gala, where she channeled Novak’s iconic style.
Novak’s relationship with Davis was not just a romance; it was a complex interplay of love and societal pressures, including racism and threats from Hollywood executives. Their connection blossomed during a time when both were at the peak of their careers, having met on ‘The Steve Allen Show’.
Reflecting on the nature of their relationship, Novak stated, “I don’t think the relationship was scandalous,” indicating her desire for a more respectful portrayal of their bond. She added, “There’s no way it wouldn’t be a sexual relationship because Sydney Sweeney looks sexy all the time,” underscoring her concerns about how the film might depict their love story.
As the release date approaches, observers are left wondering how the filmmakers will balance the historical context with the modern interpretations of celebrity and relationships. Details remain unconfirmed regarding how Novak’s critiques will influence the final portrayal in ‘Scandalous’.
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