In an interview with The Times of London, the 93-year-old screen legend said the 28-year-old actress was “totally wrong” for the role and claimed she would never have supported the decision. Novak also appeared to take aim at Sweeney’s appearance, suggesting the actress looks overly provocative compared to how she saw herself.
Novak further worried that the film — which reportedly stalled before production began — would emphasize the sexual aspects of her relationship with Davis rather than the shared interests that initially drew them together. She argued that casting Sweeney would inevitably push the story in a more sensual direction.
Scandalous was first reported to be in development in October 2024, with Colman Domingo set to direct his feature debut. Sweeney was slated to portray Novak, while David Jonsson was cast as Davis Jr.
The project aims to explore the couple’s romance and the intense backlash they faced due to racial prejudice when their relationship became public. Novak reflected on how interracial relationships were taboo in Hollywood at the time and recalled the hostility Davis encountered, including cruel incidents fueled by racism.
She said studio executives forced them to end the relationship in 1957, fearing an interracial marriage would damage business. Columbia Pictures head Henry Cohn, who had Novak under contract, was reportedly concerned about the fallout and, according to various accounts, even threatened Davis if they did not separate.
Novak also clarified that marriage was never part of their plans, though she said she cared deeply for him. She has previously voiced concerns about the film, including her dislike of the title, insisting their relationship was not “scandalous” but rooted in mutual understanding and shared experiences.
Despite Novak’s objections, Sweeney previously said she felt honored to portray the actress, noting that Novak’s struggles with fame, scrutiny, and control over her public image still resonate today.
