KJ Apa starring in Upcoming James Stewart Biography

[Areyakiddin]

KJ Apa has signed on to star as James Stewart in “Jimmy,” an upcoming biopic about the “It’s a Wonderful Life” legend.

“I have always been a huge James Stewart fan and feel so honored I get to bring his story to life,” Apa, best known for his role as Archie on the CW’s “Riverdale,” said Tuesday morning. “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. It is important to me to give back to a country that has given me so much, and what better way to do that than by honoring a man who served it with great honor.”.

The “Jimmy” ensemble also includes Jason Alexander as Louis B. Mayer; Max Casella as Frank Capra; Sarah Drew as Hedda Hopper; Julian Works as Second Lieutenant Martinez; and Jen Lilley as Stewart’s wife Gloria.

The movie chronicles Pennsylvania-native Stewart’s rise in Hollywood, including winning an Academy Award for his work in “The Philadelphia Story,” before enlisting in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a combat pilot at the beginning of World War II. Not long after his return home, he starred in Capra’s “It’s a Wonderful Life” in 1946.

Stewart’s daughter Kelly Stewart-Harcourt serves as executive producer of the film. “My family and I are delighted and excited that KJ Apa has agreed to play my father in this film,” she said. “In addition to his considerable acting skills, KJ’s enthusiasm for the project will only add to the energy and depth he will bring to the role.”

https://variety.com/2025/film/column...my-1236478253/