KJ Apa’s ‘Jimmy’ New Movie Celebrates Jimmy Stewart’s Christian Faith and Courage Beyond Hollywood

Jimmy Stewart's greatest legacy extended far beyond the silver screen. That was the message from his family and the cast of Jimmy as they gathered in Fort Worth, Texas, for the film's November 4 premiere, honouring the beloved actor's Christian faith, military service and commitment to helping others.

Opening in theatres November 6, the biographical drama stars Riverdale actor KJ Apa as Stewart and follows his decision to leave a flourishing Hollywood career to serve during World War II. Directed by Aaron Burns, the film explores the combat experiences and difficult homecoming that preceded his performance as George Bailey in It's a Wonderful Life.

Speaking to The Christian Post, Stewart's daughter and the film's executive producer, Kelly Stewart Harcourt, remembered a father whose faith shaped his everyday choices.

"He always tried to do the right thing. He always tried to be good, and that's why he was a good man," she said.

Harcourt acknowledged that maintaining those convictions required effort, especially amid Hollywood's opportunities and temptations. Her father, she explained, remained conscious of the kind of life he wanted to lead.

Already an Academy Award winner for The Philadelphia Story, Stewart enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps and flew 20 combat missions over Europe. He rose to the rank of colonel during the war and later became a brigadier general in the Air Force Reserve.

For Apa, portraying Stewart brought a deeper appreciation of military sacrifice and the struggles service members can carry home.

"It definitely changed my perspective on who he was and the life that he led," Apa told The Christian Post.

He hopes Stewart's example encourages younger viewers, particularly young men, to act with integrity when doing so comes at a personal cost.

"Jimmy, at a really scary time in history, chose to do the right thing," Apa said.

Cast member Rob Riggle, a Marine Corps veteran who portrays Col. Terrill, described Stewart's departure from Hollywood at the height of his success as "a true American hero story."

Riggle also said learning about Stewart's wartime experiences changed his understanding of It's a Wonderful Life. George Bailey's anguish now carries added weight for him as he considers the pain Stewart may have brought to the role after combat.

The premiere included a military colour guard, the National Anthem and a B-24 bomber flyover. Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker proclaimed November 4 "Jimmy Stewart Day."

Also attending was Karolyn Grimes, who played Zuzu Bailey in It's a Wonderful Life. She remembered Stewart's kindness and his continued support for veterans, expressing hope that audiences would discover the satisfaction of giving and serving others.

Alongside Apa and Riggle, Jimmy features Neal McDonough, Max Casella, Christopher McDonald, Sarah Drew, Jen Lilley and Kara Killmer.