Kim Novak is not quietly observing Hollywood revisit her past. According to Variety, the screen icon used a recent interview with The Times of London to deliver a blunt assessment of “Scandalous,” the upcoming drama centered on her relationship with Sammy Davis Jr.. At the center of her frustration is the film’s casting, with Sydney Sweeney stepping into her role.
Novak Pushes Back on Casting and Direction of ‘Scandalous’
The project, backed by Miramax and directed by Colman Domingo, was initially set to shoot in Los Angeles following the completion of the third season of “Euphoria.” It remains unclear whether principal photography has begun, and no release date has been announced.
Novak made clear she would not have supported the film, stating she would have “never approved” it. She also addressed Sweeney’s casting directly, saying the actress is “totally wrong to play me” because she “sticks out so much above the waist.”
In the same interview, Novak raised concerns about how the relationship may be depicted on screen, suggesting the picture could emphasize its sexual dimension too much. She said their connection was based on having “so much in common,” while also remarking, “There’s no way it wouldn’t be a sexual relationship because Sydney Sweeney looks sexy all the time.”
Sweeney, who is also producing the film, has previously said she feels honored to take on the role, highlighting the relevance of the story regarding privacy and image. For now, Variety reports that her representatives did not immediately respond to a request for comment.