Novak Slams Sweeney Casting in Sammy Davis Jr. Biopic

Kim Novak, the iconic actress, has expressed significant reservations about Sydney Sweeney being cast to portray her in the forthcoming film "Scandalous!". Novak conveyed to The Times that Sweeney's casting is inappropriate, suggesting Sweeney's consistently sexy image makes her unsuitable for the role.

Furthermore, Novak raised concerns about Sweeney's capacity to authentically depict the complexities of bipolar disorder, a condition Novak herself has publicly shared. Novak emphasized the profound emotional depth experienced by those with bipolar disorder, suggesting it's an intrinsic vulnerability that cannot be simply acted.

The film, "Scandalous!", is set to explore Novak's past romantic relationship with Sammy Davis Jr. during the late 1950s. This narrative will juxtapose the couple's passionate romance with the prevailing societal backdrop of racial segregation in the United States at that time.

Novak has been a vocal critic of the project since its announcement in October 2024, even questioning the film's title, "Scandalous!". She indicated that she did not view her relationship with Davis Jr. as scandalous, but rather as a deep connection built on shared understanding, and expressed worry that the film might overemphasize its sexual aspects.

Sweeney, in response, has expressed her honor in portraying Novak and her hope to connect with the legend before filming commences. She acknowledged the relevance of Novak's story regarding navigating Hollywood scrutiny and image control, aspects with which Sweeney feels a personal connection.