The first trailer and poster for the upcoming biopic Jimmy, starring KJ Apa as the legendary actor Jimmy Stewart, have been unveiled. The film explores Stewart's life, including his World War II service and Hollywood career. It is scheduled for theatrical release on November 6, 2026.
Overview
Burns & Co. Entertainment has released the first look at Jimmy, an upcoming biopic chronicling the life of Hollywood icon Jimmy Stewart. KJ Apa portrays Stewart, focusing on his decision to enlist in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II shortly after winning the Best Actor Oscar for The Philadelphia Story in 1940. The trailer depicts Stewart's Hollywood beginnings, his 20 combat missions over Europe where he rose to colonel, and his return to acting, culminating in his iconic role as George Bailey in the 1946 classic It's a Wonderful Life.
Cast and Production
Directed by Aaron Burns from a script by Justin Strawhand, the film features a notable ensemble. Key cast members include:
- Neal McDonough as Stewart's father, Alexander
- Max Casella as director Frank Capra
- Jason Alexander as MGM head Louis B. Mayer
- Christopher McDonald as actor Lionel Barrymore
- Sarah Drew as columnist Hedda Hopper
- Rob Riggle as Colonel Terrill
- Kara Killmer as Lady Julia
- Jen Lilley as Gloria Stewart
- Julian Works as Second Lieutenant Martinez
Variety's Marc Malkin appears as band leader Glenn Miller. Producers are David Cook, Angela Galgani Sullivan, Jack McClintock, John Norton of Redted Media, Burns, and Strawhand, with Stewart's daughter Kelly Stewart-Harcourt as executive producer. The film includes a cameo by Karolyn Grimes, who played Zuzu Bailey in It's a Wonderful Life.
Quotes and Reactions
KJ Apa shared in a statement: “Jimmy Stewart was an American Hero. He was among a certain breed of men who understood the true meaning of sacrifice by fighting for our freedom. He was also among the greatest actors of all time starring in over 80 movies and winning one Academy Award for best actor. His story is one of strength and purpose, love and honor, fame and war. His story is one that begs us to think of the greater good and to be willing to fight for it.”
Karolyn Grimes reflected: “It has been an incredible experience to be part of Jimmy. Jimmy carries forward the values and emotional warmth that audiences have cherished for decades. It’s truly an honor to return to the screen and take part in a film that pays tribute to one of the most enduring stories in cinematic history.”
Kelly Stewart-Harcourt added: “I have long thought that it would be hard to find an actor who could bring my father to life without doing an extended Jimmy Stewart impersonation. But that actor has been found and his name is KJ Apa. I was privileged enough to visit the set in Ireland this last September, and there, I felt a magic. I know this will be conveyed in the film, and I can’t wait to see it.”
The poster shows Apa as Stewart in a tuxedo holding an army cap, with bombers and a Hollywood cityscape in the background. The trailer was released on December 17, 2025.
