Euphoria and Anyone But You star Sydney Sweeney has become an unexpected defender of Hollywood legend Kim Novak, publicly condemning a 'distasteful' joke made at the veteran actress's expense during the 2024 Golden Globes ceremony.
The incident, which has ignited a fierce debate about ageism and respect within the entertainment industry, saw host Jo Koy make a clumsy quip linking Novak's infamous 1974 Oscars appearance to the film The Exorcist. The remark was widely criticised on social media as being in poor taste and unnecessarily cruel.
A Voice of Support from a New Generation
Rather than staying silent, the 26-year-old Sweeney used her platform to stand up for the 90-year-old screen icon. In a powerful show of solidarity, Sweeney took to her Instagram Stories to post a stunning, vintage portrait of Novak from her heyday, captioning it with a heartfelt message of admiration.
"Kim Novak is an iconic legend,’’ Sweeney wrote. Her public defence highlights a growing awareness among younger performers about the importance of honouring the pioneers who paved the way for their own careers.
The Original 'Scandal' That Inspired the Joke
The joke referenced a moment in Hollywood history that has been widely misrepresented. In 1974, Kim Novak, then a major star known for films like Vertigo, was invited to present the Academy Award for Best Picture.
Her appearance, characterised by a new hairstyle and a lilac gown, was bizarrely labelled a 'scandal' by some gossip columnists of the era—a narrative that has persisted for decades. The recent Golden Globes gag served only to perpetuate this outdated and unkind narrative.
Social Media Backlash and Industry Reflection
The host's joke was met with immediate backlash online. Fans and commentators alike flocked to social media to express their disappointment, labelling the bit as "cheap," "unfunny," and emblematic of the industry's pervasive ageism, particularly towards its iconic actresses.
Sweeney's intervention has been praised as a classy and necessary rebuttal, shifting the conversation from mockery to one of respect and legacy. It underscores a timely reminder of the need for greater sensitivity and the celebration of Hollywood's rich history, rather than the cheap exploitation of its past for a weak punchline.
