Kim Novak disapproves Sydney Sweeney casting in 'Scandalous!'
Kim Novak shares her worries about film depicting her 1957 relationship with Sammy Davis Jr
As Colman Domingo gears up for his first time directing with Scandalous!, Kim Novak shares more of her worries about the film depicting her 1957 relationship with Sammy Davis Jr.
The Hollywood Golden Age actress, who won two Golden Globes, stated she “wouldn’t have given approval” for the movie featuring Sydney Sweeney in her role, commenting that the Euphoria star “stands out too prominently above the waist.”
Novak is concerned the film might center too much on intimacy, even though she and Davis (played by David Jonsson) had “a lot in common,” she shared with The Times, “It is inevitable there would be a focus on sex because Sydney Sweeney always exudes a sex appeal. She was completely inappropriate to portray me.”
Some words of wisdom for Sweeney from one actress to another? “You can’t just acquire vulnerability. It’s a tremendous advantage for an actor who is bipolar. Nobody feels emotions as intensely as a person living with bipolar disorder. These emotions are overwhelming,” Novak said, who disclosed her bipolar condition in 2013.
Referring to the film as a “fragmented love narrative,” Domingo previously shared with Deadline their intention to begin filming Scandalous! in summer 2025 after he and Sweeney wrapped up production on Season 3 of Euphoria, which is set to air on April 12 on HBO.
“And then hopefully we’ll craft a heartfelt, tender film that’s truly about the possibilities of love, in the face of many observers, striving for privacy, striving for love, striving for a life,” Domingo added.
“I think it’s a reality that both Sydney and I deeply understand. We’re making an effort to reclaim your humanity in your life once more.”
Novak, known for her role in Vertigo, and Rat Pack icon Davis were at the pinnacle of their fame when they encountered each other during an appearance on The Steve Allen Show in 1956.
Their relationship blossomed quickly, but as whispers spread, the intense racism in America posed a risk to their careers.
Novak faced the wrath of Harry Cohn, the Columbia Pictures head, who had her under contract.
Her secret relationship with Davis made headlines when a Chicago gossip columnist published a detailed account of their romance in early 1958, mentioning their intention to marry, despite their denials. Nine days later, Davis wed a Black dancer named Loray White.