K.J. Apa stars as Jimmy Stewart in ‘JIMMY,’ releasing in November. Image courtesy of Burns and Co. All Rights Reserved. Used With Permission.
Hollywood icon Jimmy Stewart, known for his everyman charm and Academy Award-winning performances, including the classic “It’s a Wonderful Life,” is getting the big-screen treatment in an upcoming biopic that spotlights his remarkable journey from Oscar glory to wartime heroism and back to cinematic redemption.
Burns & Co. Entertainment announced Tuesday it is partnering with Fathom Entertainment for the U.S. theatrical distribution of “JIMMY,” a feature film based on the untold true story of Stewart’s most transformative years. Starring KJ Apa of “Riverdale” fame as the beloved actor, the movie will open nationwide Nov. 6, 2026.
The film chronicles Stewart’s life from his 1941 Oscar win for best actor in “The Philadelphia Story” to his enlistment in the U.S. Army Air Corps shortly after, even as a major star. Stewart flew 20 combat missions over Europe as a B-24 bomber pilot and commander, rising to the rank of colonel. He returned home haunted by the experience, struggling with what would now be recognized as post-traumatic stress, before finding purpose in the role of George Bailey in Frank Capra’s “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
Director Aaron Burns, who also produced the film from a script by Justin Strawhand, emphasized its inspirational core.
“We are honored that ‘JIMMY’ will be widely available to audiences across the country, not only because ‘JIMMY’ is a movie for all audiences, but because it will inspire and remind Americans of the importance of true heroes like Jimmy Stewart in our midst,” Burns said in a statement.
Stewart was known to be a man of faith, raised in the Presbyterian church, and reportedly carried a copy of Psalm 91 while serving in combat.
The all-star cast includes Kara Killmer as Lady Julia, Neal McDonough as Stewart’s father Alexander, Max Casella as Capra, Jason Alexander as Louis B. Mayer, Christopher McDonald as Lionel Barrymore, Sarah Drew as Hedda Hopper, Rob Riggle as Colonel Terrill, Julian Works as Second Lt. Martinez, Jemma Donovan as Ginger Rogers and Jen Lilley as Gloria Stewart.
Fathom Entertainment CEO Ray Nutt praised the project as “a special film — filled with genuine heart and terrific performances” from an ensemble that vividly recreates Hollywood’s golden age and the battlefields of World War II.
“It’s a fascinating and inspiring story of the iconic American actor Jimmy Stewart,” Nutt said.
Nutt noted that following “JIMMY,” Fathom will re-release “It’s a Wonderful Life” in theaters Dec. 18 for its 80th anniversary, offering audiences a chance to connect the biopic’s events to Stewart’s iconic role.
The film arrives amid a growing appreciation for Stewart’s legacy as both a screen legend and a genuine war hero who served when many celebrities sought safer paths. His decision to enlist at the height of his career, enduring the dangers of aerial combat, underscores a quiet courage that defined his life and informed his later performances, particularly the despair and hope embodied in George Bailey.
Burns & Co. is amplifying that message of service through an ambitious “GIVE BACK” campaign with Vet Tix, a veteran-led nonprofit. The initiative aims to provide 1 million donated tickets to veterans and their families, funded entirely by tax-deductible corporate, charitable and community contributions. All proceeds will support free theater access as a thank-you to those who serve.
Producers include David Cook, Angela Galgani Sullivan, Jack McClintock, John Norton of Redted Media, Burns and Strawhand. Kelly Steward Harcourt, Stewart’s daughter, serves as executive producer.
Footage from “JIMMY” will debut at CinemaCon on April 16, hosted by Nutt during the Filmmakers Luncheon. Tickets go on sale in September at participating theaters and online via Fathom Entertainment.
For more information, visit jimmythemovie.com or follow @jimmystewartmovie on social media.
DeWayne Hamby has covered faith-based music, movies, television, books, and the retail industry for more than 30 years. He is a film member of the Critics Choice Association and the author of the book Gratitude Adjustment. Connect with him at on Facebook, X, YouTube or InstaGram.