Rising star Sydney Sweeney is set to portray Hollywood icon Kim Novak in the upcoming biopic Scandalous!, which chronicles Novak’s 1950s romance with legendary entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. The announcement has captured the attention of Hollywood insiders and fans alike, sparking both excitement and curiosity about how Sweeney will step into the shoes of one of cinema’s most enigmatic stars.
While the project promises to explore the glamour, struggles, and groundbreaking nature of Novak’s life, the Vertigo actress herself has voiced concerns about the portrayal. At 92, Novak remains vigilant about how her story will be told, especially the parts that deal with her relationship with Davis Jr.
Kim Novak’s Concerns
In a recent interview with The Guardian, Novak revealed her apprehension about the film’s narrative focus. She stated, “I don’t think the relationship was scandalous. He’s somebody I really cared about. We had so much in common, including that need to be accepted for who we are and what we do, rather than how we look.”
Novak’s concerns center on the fear that the film may overemphasize the romantic or sexual aspects of her relationship with Davis Jr., potentially overshadowing the emotional depth and mutual respect that defined their bond. She insists that their connection was rooted in companionship and shared experiences navigating a Hollywood landscape defined by racial and gender biases.
The Biopic’s Vision
Directed by Colman Domingo, Scandalous! seeks to present a nuanced and respectful depiction of Novak’s life, with a particular focus on the challenges she faced as a woman in 1950s Hollywood and as part of an interracial romance that defied societal expectations. Domingo has emphasized his intent to capture the humanity, resilience, and courage of both Novak and Davis Jr., highlighting the personal and societal pressures they navigated.
The biopic promises to explore themes of love, ambition, and the complexities of fame, while providing audiences with a lens into the historical context of Hollywood during a time of intense racial prejudice and gender norms.
Sydney Sweeney’s Preparation
Sweeney has been immersing herself in the life and career of Kim Novak, studying her performances, interviews, and public appearances to capture the essence of the star. At the 2025 Met Gala, Sweeney paid homage to Novak by wearing a shimmering black Miu Miu gown inspired by Novak’s outfit in the 1967 film The Legend of Lylah Clare. This tribute reflects Sweeney’s commitment to authentically portraying Novak, not just as an actress but as a cultural icon who challenged the norms of her time.
Sweeney has also been working closely with the film’s creative team to understand Novak’s personal experiences and emotional depth, ensuring that her performance honors the complexity of the Hollywood legend she portrays.
Casting and Production
Alongside Sweeney, the film will feature David Jonsson as Sammy Davis Jr., capturing both the charisma and the social challenges he faced as a Black entertainer in the 1950s. Colman Domingo, making his feature directorial debut, brings a fresh perspective to the biopic, blending historical accuracy with cinematic storytelling that aims to resonate with contemporary audiences.
Filming is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with locations carefully chosen to reflect the authenticity of 1950s Hollywood. The production team is committed to capturing both the glamour and the social realities of the era, providing a vivid backdrop for Novak and Davis Jr.’s story.
Anticipation and Cultural Significance
The announcement of Sweeney portraying Kim Novak has sparked significant excitement in Hollywood circles. Fans are eager to see how Sweeney embodies the elegance, intelligence, and subtle defiance that Novak brought to the screen. Critics and industry insiders have highlighted the importance of presenting historical figures in a nuanced way, particularly when tackling topics of race, gender, and personal agency in Hollywood’s past.
The biopic is expected to be not only a cinematic tribute to Novak but also a broader commentary on the challenges faced by women and minorities in the entertainment industry during the mid-20th century. By exploring these themes, Scandalous! seeks to shed light on enduring issues of representation, equality, and respect in Hollywood.
Conclusion
As Sydney Sweeney prepares to play Hollywood legend Kim Novak, anticipation continues to build. The film promises to offer a compelling mix of romance, history, and cultural commentary, while respecting the personal legacy of one of cinema’s most iconic stars. Novak’s cautious optimism, paired with Sweeney’s dedication, sets the stage for a biopic that honors the past while engaging modern audiences with a story of love, courage, and resilience.
