KJ Apa to Star as Hollywood Legend James Stewart in Upcoming Biopic “Jimmy”

The golden age of Hollywood is coming back to life as Riverdale star KJ Apa has been cast to portray cinematic icon James Stewart in the upcoming biopic Jimmy. The film, set to begin production in Ireland next year, will chronicle Stewart’s remarkable journey from Oscar-winning actor to WWII combat pilot and his triumphant return to Hollywood.

Directed by Aaron Burns (War Room), Jimmy will focus on Stewart’s early career peak—including his Academy Award win for The Philadelphia Story—followed by his military service as a bomber pilot in World War II, and his emotional homecoming to star in Frank Capra’s timeless classic It’s a Wonderful Life. The casting announcement has generated significant buzz in entertainment circles, with Stewart’s daughter Kelly Stewart-Harcourt serving as executive producer.

The James Stewart Legacy Comes to Life

The biopic boasts an impressive supporting cast including Jason Alexander (Seinfeld) as MGM studio head Louis B. Mayer, Jen Lilley (Days of Our Lives) as Stewart’s wife Gloria, Max Casella (Boardwalk Empire) as director Frank Capra, and Sarah Drew (Grey’s Anatomy) as influential gossip columnist Hedda Hopper. Production is scheduled to start in West Cork, Ireland on September 1, 2025, targeting a November 2026 theatrical release.

Apa expressed profound respect for his subject in an exclusive statement: “I have always been a huge James Stewart fan and feel so honored I get to bring his story to life. As someone from New Zealand, I’ve long admired that generation of American men who stood for patriotism, integrity, and a deep sense of duty.” The 27-year-old actor previously demonstrated his biographical chops playing Christian musician Jeremy Camp in I Still Believe.

Why Stewart’s Story Resonates Today

Director Aaron Burns emphasized the timeless relevance of Stewart’s journey: “Jimmy Stewart is universally beloved as an actor who truly embodied the everyman. We all know him from It’s a Wonderful Life, but as I discovered his real-life story as a World War II military hero, I realized Jimmy’s life makes for an amazing movie.” Burns’ production company specializes in faith-based films, though Stewart’s daughter confirmed this project will honor her father’s broader legacy beyond his religious values.

The New Zealand-born Apa faces the significant challenge of capturing Stewart’s distinctive mannerisms and vocal patterns—a signature blend of earnestness and vulnerability that made him one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars. Stewart’s filmography includes timeless classics across genres: from Hitchcock masterpieces like Rear Window and Vertigo to political dramas like Mr. Smith Goes to Washington and the holiday perennial It’s a Wonderful Life.

A New Chapter for Riverdale Stars

This high-profile role continues Apa’s transition from teen drama heartthrob to serious film actor, joining fellow Riverdale alumni who are making notable career moves. Camila Mendes will star in Masters of the Universe, Lili Reinhart is producing The Love Hypothesis, Madelaine Petsch appears in The Strangers: Chapter 2, and Charles Melton earned critical acclaim for May December.

Kelly Stewart-Harcourt expressed full confidence in the casting choice: “My family and I are delighted that KJ Apa has agreed to play my father. In addition to his considerable acting skills, KJ’s enthusiasm for the project will only add to the energy and depth he brings to the role.” The Stewart family’s involvement ensures authentic portrayal of the actor’s values and experiences.

Must Know

Q: What time period will the James Stewart biopic cover?
A: Jimmy will focus on Stewart’s career from his 1940 Oscar win for The Philadelphia Story through his WWII military service, culminating with the 1946 release of It’s a Wonderful Life—a period showcasing his dramatic personal and professional transformation.

Q: Who is directing the James Stewart biopic?
A: Aaron Burns, co-founder of faith-based production company Burns & Co. and producer of War Room, is directing. His team specializes in inspirational stories, though they emphasize this project honors Stewart’s broader cultural legacy beyond religious themes.

Q: When will the Stewart biopic film and release?
A: Principal photography begins September 1, 2025 in Ireland, with theatrical release currently scheduled for November 2026—coinciding with the 80th anniversary of It’s a Wonderful Life.

Q: What makes James Stewart such an enduring Hollywood figure?
A: Beyond his iconic film roles, Stewart served as a decorated B-24 bomber pilot during WWII, flying 20 combat missions. His rare transition from Hollywood star to combat veteran and back again represents a uniquely American story of service and resilience.

Q: Has KJ Apa played real-life figures before?
A: Yes, Apa portrayed contemporary Christian singer Jeremy Camp in the 2020 biopic I Still Believe, demonstrating his ability to embody real individuals with nuance and respect.

The James Stewart biopic represents more than a Hollywood story—it’s an exploration of American values during a transformative era. With KJ Apa’s dedication and the Stewart family’s guidance, Jimmy promises to honor a man whose on-screen humanity mirrored his off-screen integrity. Follow production updates as this tribute to cinematic and national heritage develops.