Jimmy biopic gives the first glimpse of Riverdale's KJ Apa as Hollywood legend Jimmy Stewart

Jimmy is a forthcoming biographical drama based on the life of actor and aviator James Stewart. The film is directed by Aaron Burns, while Justin Strawhand is the writer. The two have produced the film with David C. Cook, Angela Galgani Sullivan, and John Norton. It will be released on November 6, 2026. Here's the official synopsis as per Letterboxd:

A look into the life of American actor James Stewart, whose inspiring tale of valor, purpose and faith will win over everyone.

Let's explore the details of this film, including its plotline, cast, and other key aspects.

Jimmy teaser is out

Recently, the makers of Jimmy dropped its one-minute and 15-second-long teaser trailer. The video begins with Jimmy Stewart giving an emotional shot for a film. While Stewart performs, a looming war is about to break out. Stewart says in the video,

“Don’t I have the right to serve my country just like anyone else does?” In response, Rob Riggle says, “America can’t afford to lose Jimmy Stewart.”

He is then told he is just an actor and not cut out for war. The teaser ends with him saying,

"Someday, I’d like to be able to look at myself in the mirror and see a good man looking back at me.”

What is the plot of Jimmy?

The film is a biographical drama about James Stewart. It will touch upon his life and career, especially in films such as It's a Wonderful Life and A Philadelphia Story. We will also see his stint in the U.S. Army Air Corps during the Second World War.

Stewart starred in several films, including Rope, Rear Window, and The Glenn Miller Story, and was awarded the Best Actor Oscar.

Who is starring in Jimmy?

The cast of the film includes,

KJ Apa as James Stewart
Jemma Donovan as Ginger Rogers
Jason Alexander as Louis B. Mayer
Max Casella as Frank Capra
Kara Killmer as Lady Julia
Sarah Drew as Hedda Hopper
Rob Riggle as U.S. Army Colonel Terrill
Julian Works as Second Lieutenant Martinez
Jen Lilley as Gloria Stewart
Neal McDonough as Alexander Stewart
Christopher McDonald as Lionel Barrymore

Kelly Stewart-Harcourt, Stewart's daughter, is serving as an executive producer on the film. In a statement put out earlier this year, she said:

“My family and I are delighted and excited that KJ Apa has agreed to play my father in this film. 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.”

The film's executive producers include Andre Caraco, Edwina Forkin, Bob Gordon, Jordan Hunt, Sam Juergens, Kip Konwiser, Walter Krumm II, F Joseph Krumm, Jack McClintock, Amy K. Mitchell, Johnathan Schutz, Kelly Stewart, Carolyn White, Scott White, and Brian Williams.

The film will be released theatrically on November 6, 2026.