Kim Novak, the iconic actress, has expressed her strong disapproval of Sydney Sweeney being cast to portray her in an upcoming biopic titled Scandalous. The 93-year-old star shared her thoughts with The Times, stating that she never would have approved of the film, which focuses on her relationship with musician Sammy Davis Jr.
Novak’s worries extend beyond casting. She mentioned that Sweeney, known for her captivating roles in Euphoria, might inadvertently emphasize a sexual angle in their story. “She looks sexy all the time,” Novak remarked, implying that the film could stray from the true essence of her bond with Davis.
The film’s progress has reportedly slowed, with Colman Domingo set to direct and Sweeney in the lead role alongside British actor David Jonsson as Davis.
Sweeney has yet to respond to Novak’s comments but previously expressed her excitement about playing the role. She considers Novak’s story highly relevant today, referencing the scrutiny women face in Hollywood regarding their personal lives and public images.
In a previous interview, Novak critiqued the film’s title, calling it misleading. She emphasized that her relationship with Davis was built on genuine care, rather than the sensationalism the title suggests. The couple’s romance was largely hidden until it became public in 1958, which led to significant backlash due to the interracial nature of their relationship. At that time, many in Hollywood, including powerful heads like Columbia Pictures’ Harry Cohn, pressured Davis, even using intimidation to force him into an alternate marriage.
Historically, Hollywood has faced criticism for its treatment of interracial relationships, often reflecting the societal attitudes of the times. Novak’s time with Davis highlights these struggles. They first met in 1956, with a bond developing over shared holidays and film sets, only to be disrupted by public scrutiny.
Their relationship served as a significant moment in Hollywood history, portraying not just love, but the challenges of societal acceptance. As Sweeney takes on this role, it opens up discussions about how far the industry has come and how much further it still has to go in acknowledging personal stories beyond mere headlines.
Today’s audiences continue to discuss these topics on social media, reflecting on past injustices while critiquing current narratives. Understanding the nuances of Novak and Davis’s relationship can help foster a deeper appreciation for the complexities involved in biographical portrayals.
For more context about Novak’s legacy and the challenges she faced, you can read this interview on her lifetime achievement award: The Guardian.
