Kim Novak Is ‘Concerned’ Upcoming Biopic, Starring Sydney Sweeney, Will Focus Only on ‘Sexual’ Aspect of Sammy Davis Jr. Romance

Kim Novak, famous for her role in classic films such as “Vertigo,” is expressing concerns over an upcoming biopic that focuses on her romance with legendary entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. The biopic, titled “Scandalous!,” is currently in pre-production and is set to star Sydney Sweeney and David Jonsson in the lead roles. Novak, now 92 years old, worries that the film will only highlight the “sexual” aspect of their relationship, rather than the deeper connection they shared. The actress expressed her sentiments in an interview with The Guardian, emphasizing that the relationship was based on genuine care and shared experiences, rather than scandalous affairs.

Novak’s manager, Sue Cameron, has also weighed in on the importance of portraying their story accurately. Cameron revealed that there have been several unauthorized projects in development about Novak and Davis Jr.’s relationship, emphasizing that it was built on love, respect, and common interests. The romance between Novak and Davis Jr. began in the 1950s and was characterized by their shared rebellious spirit and experiences as outsiders in Hollywood. Novak had hoped that their relationship would help break down racial biases prevalent during that era.

Despite their genuine affection for each other, external pressures, including threats from influential figures like Harry Cohn, the head of Columbia Pictures, ultimately led to the end of their relationship. Cohn’s disapproval, coupled with societal prejudices, proved to be insurmountable obstacles for the couple. The challenges they faced in pursuing their love story amid scrutiny and discrimination highlight the complexities of interracial relationships during that period.

“Scandalous!” is being produced by Miramax and will mark Colman Domingo’s directorial debut. Domingo aims to create a film that explores the possibility of love amidst external scrutiny and challenges, drawing parallels to his own experiences with privacy and love in the public eye. Both Sydney Sweeney and Domingo are committed to advocating for the humanity and complexities of their characters, reflecting on their own personal understanding of navigating relationships in the spotlight.

The biopic does not yet have a release date, but the anticipation surrounding its production and the casting of talented actors like Sydney Sweeney has sparked conversation within the entertainment industry. Novak’s reservations about the film’s potential focus on the sensational aspects of her relationship with Davis Jr. add depth to the ongoing discussions about how biopics portray real-life individuals and the importance of capturing the nuances of their experiences.

As audiences await the release of “Scandalous!,” the film stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Kim Novak and Sammy Davis Jr., shedding light on a chapter of their lives that was marked by love, challenges, and societal pressures. Novak’s concerns serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in telling intimate stories on the big screen, urging filmmakers and audiences alike to approach biopics with sensitivity and authenticity.

Kim Novak’s reservations about the upcoming biopic add a layer of intrigue to the production, inviting viewers to delve deeper into the multifaceted lives of these iconic figures. With a talented cast and a director dedicated to capturing the essence of their relationship, “Scandalous!” promises to offer a poignant exploration of love, resilience, and the impact of external forces on personal connections.