Hollywood Legend Kim Novak SLAMS Sydney Sweeney Casting: 'Totally Wrong'
The Vertigo icon didn't hold back when she learned who's playing her in the upcoming biopic
By CelebBuzz StaffMarch 29, 2026Source: E! NewsFact-Check: MEDIUM
A Hollywood Legend Speaks Her Mind
When you're a Golden Age Hollywood icon like Kim Novak, you've earned the right to speak your mind. And speak her mind she did when news broke about who would be portraying her on the big screen.
The 91-year-old Vertigo star, known for her stunning beauty and captivating performances in Alfred Hitchcock classics, recently learned that Sydney Sweeney had been cast to play her in the upcoming drama Scandalous.
Her reaction? Let's just say she wasn't feeling "euphoric" about the news.
According to E! News, the legendary actress had some very strong words about the casting choice that has Hollywood buzzing and fans divided.
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But what exactly did Kim Novak say about Sydney Sweeney that has everyone talking?
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The casting announcement for Scandalous had already generated significant buzz in Hollywood circles. The biographical drama promises to chronicle the life and career of Kim Novak, one of cinema's most enigmatic stars.
Novak rose to fame in the 1950s, becoming a household name with her mesmerizing performances in films like Vertigo and Picnic. Her platinum blonde hair, striking features, and mysterious screen presence made her one of the most sought-after actresses of her generation.
Sydney Sweeney, on the other hand, represents a new generation of Hollywood talent. The 27-year-old actress has taken the entertainment world by storm with her breakout role as Cassie Howard in HBO's hit series Euphoria.
On paper, casting a young, blonde actress to portray a young Kim Novak might seem like an obvious choice. But apparently, the Hollywood legend herself sees things very differently.
When the news reached Novak, her response was swift and uncompromising.
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The veteran actress didn't mince words when she delivered her verdict on the casting choice...
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Kim Novak called Sydney Sweeney "totally wrong" to play her onscreen, according to E! News. The blunt assessment from the Hollywood icon sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry.
The 91-year-old actress made it crystal clear that she doesn't approve of the Euphoria star stepping into her shoes for the biographical film. It's a rare public statement from Novak, who has largely stayed out of the spotlight in recent years.
The criticism is particularly striking given that casting decisions for biopics often generate discussion, but it's unusual for the subject of the film to speak out so directly against the choice.
Novak's comments suggest she feels there's a fundamental mismatch between herself and Sweeney, despite both being blonde actresses who have captivated audiences in their respective eras.
The veteran star's disapproval raises serious questions about how the film will proceed and whether the production team will address her concerns.
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But how is Sydney Sweeney responding to this public criticism from the legend herself?
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As news of Kim Novak's blunt assessment spreads through Hollywood, all eyes are now on Sydney Sweeney and the Scandalous production team to see how they'll respond to this unexpected controversy.
The situation puts Sweeney in a delicate position. Being publicly criticized by the very person you're meant to portray is virtually unprecedented in Hollywood biopic history.
For the Scandalous filmmakers, Novak's disapproval creates an unusual challenge. Having the subject of your biographical film publicly oppose your casting choice could complicate the production and marketing of the movie.
The drama promises to chronicle Novak's rise to stardom and her experiences in Hollywood's Golden Age, making her approval seem particularly important for the film's authenticity and success.
This is a developing story. CelebBuzz will continue to follow this Hollywood controversy as it unfolds.
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This story is developing. Follow CelebBuzz for updates.
Originally reported by E! News. Fact-check confidence: MEDIUM