Kim Novak Criticizes Sydney Sweeney’s Casting in Her Biopic

Kim Novak, now 93, has publicly objected to the casting of Sydney Sweeney in a planned biopic about Novak’s 1957 relationship with Sammy Davis Jr. Novak spoke with The Times on March 27. She said she would not have approved the choice.

Novak’s concerns

Novak expressed worry the film would stress sexual elements of the romance. She said the casting could encourage a more sexualized portrayal than she remembers.

She also noted the historical controversy surrounding her relationship with Davis. Novak said their connection grew from shared interests and a desire for acceptance.

Project details and casting

The film, titled Scandalous, entered development in October 2024. Variety reported Colman Domingo would direct.

Reports list Sydney Sweeney in the role of Novak and David Jonsson as Sammy Davis Jr. By October 2025, Sweeney said she would begin work after completing season three of Euphoria.

Sweeney’s response and outreach

Sweeney has publicly celebrated Novak. At the 2025 Met Gala, she paid tribute to a Kim Novak dress from the 1967 film The Legend of Lylah Clare.

She told Vogue the outfit was intended as an homage. Sweeney also said she looked forward to meeting Novak and called it an honor to portray her.

Filmogaz.com reached out to Sweeney’s representatives for comment.

Personal note: family and service

Sydney Sweeney shared a recent photograph with her brother, Trent Sweeney. Trent is currently deployed with the U.S. Air Force.

Earlier remarks from Novak

Novak has previously questioned aspects of the project, including its title. In August 2025, she told The Guardian she did not view the relationship as scandalous.

She reiterated concern that the movie might reduce their connection to sexual motives. Novak emphasized they sought acceptance for who they were.

Contributing: Anthony Robledo, Filmogaz.com