Kim Novak says Sydney Sweeney is not the right choice to portray her in upcoming biopic

Veteran Hollywood star Kim Novak, aged 93, has voiced strong objections to the casting of actress Sydney Sweeney in the forthcoming biopic *Scandalous*, which portrays Novak’s 1950s romance with singer Sammy Davis Jr. In an interview with *The Times of London*, Novak said Sweeney, 28, was ‘totally wrong’ for the role and added that she would never have approved of the casting. Novak also made remarks about Sweeney’s appearance, suggesting the younger actress ‘sticks out so much above the waist’, implying she disagreed with how Sweeney’s image fits the portrayal.

Novak expressed worry that the film will focus too heavily on the sexual aspects of her relationship with Davis rather than the deep personal and professional connection they shared. The actress recounted the prejudice and hostility they faced due to their interracial relationship in the 1950s, including threats from Hollywood executives and overt acts of racism. Novak denied any plans to marry Davis but said they had mutual affection and understanding.

The film *Scandalous*, first announced in 2024, is intended to be the directorial debut of Colman Domingo, with Sweeney as Novak and David Jonsson as Davis Jr. However, production has reportedly stalled. Sweeney has previously said she felt honoured to play Novak, relating to her struggles with fame and scrutiny in Hollywood, but Novak maintains that the title and focus of the movie misrepresent her story.