KJ Apa has received a meaningful endorsement for his portrayal of Hollywood legend Jimmy Stewart in the upcoming biopic Jimmy: praise from Stewart’s daughter, Kelly Stewart-Harcourt.
Stewart-Harcourt, who is also an executive producer on the film, told People that seeing Apa in character on the set was an emotional experience. Rather than simply imitating her father, she believes the Riverdale star captures the qualities that made Stewart distinctive.
The film explores a defining decade
Jimmy focuses on Stewart during the 1940s, a period that included his Academy Award win for The Philadelphia Story, his military service as a combat pilot during World War II and his performance in It’s a Wonderful Life.
Apa has said the project deepened his appreciation for Stewart and the era of classic Hollywood. The cast also includes Kara Killmer, Neal McDonough and Jason Alexander.
The family endorsement gives the biopic an added layer of credibility ahead of its release. Jimmy is scheduled to premiere on November 6.
Source: People, October 13, 2026.