KJ Apa’s role in the upcoming Jimmy Stewart biopic is taking the internet by storm.
On Tuesday, August 5, Apa, 28, was announced as the star of the movie, aptly titled Jimmy, via the film’s official Instagram page.
“Soon to enter production — JIMMY, a major motion picture about the life of Jimmy Stewart, is coming from @burnsandcoproductions!” the post read. “Starring KJ Apa, JIMMY will be exclusively in theaters November 2026.”
Madelyn Cline — who is starring in the upcoming romance The Map That Leads to You alongside Apa — took to the comments section to react to the Riverdale alum’s big news.
Riverdale fans have watched the cast change on and off screen since the series first debuted. In 2017, viewers were introduced to a group of friends who came together to uncover the dark secrets that exist within their town. Based on the iconic Archie Comics, Riverdale shocked fans with several unexpected twists and turns over […]
“@kjapa jimmithy?????,” the actress, 27, replied.
In addition to Cline’s message of support, countless fans of Apa shared their excitement for the biopic.
“He’s going to be great, Jimmy Stewart was one of the greats, I love those old classic movies, I can’t wait!!” one user gushed, while another wrote, “You had me at Jimmy 😍 @kjapa will do a splendid job !! Excited for this 🤗 maybe this will bring back the regal, commanding presence of Hollywood actors and all the men’s suits and beautiful fashion of the era 🤩.”
While many fans were supportive of Apa’s casting news on Instagram, users on other social media platforms had a mixed reaction.
“KJ Apa does not have an ounce of the range needed to recreate this scene so why should i respect him,” one user wrote via X alongside a clip of Stewart in It’s A Wonderful Life. Another retorted, “Just clocked out and was instantly hit with the most devastating news KJ Apa you will NEVER be Jimmy Stewart.”
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Additional online commentators questioned Apa’s ability, due to his starring role as Archie Andrews on Riverdale. While some saw it as a disadvantage, diehard Riverdale fans defended Apa’s talent due to his adaptability to adapt to the series’ wacky storylines.
“Anyone who’s actually watched Riverdale will know that KJ Apa was one of the best teen actors on the show,” one user wrote via X. “Even when he has the worst plotlines, he gives 100 percent to it, and I don’t doubt he’ll do the same with this movie.”
Another shared, “I’ve famously always said KJ Apa was kind of an exceptional actor for always being able to deliver the craziest lines on Riverdale with total sincerity and confidence…we’re gonna get you that Oscar nom KJ.”
Stewart was best known for his critically acclaimed roles in The Philadelphia Story, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, It’s a Wonderful Life, Harvey and Anatomy of a Murder. In addition to being an actor, Stewart served as a military pilot during World War II.
Jimmy will follow the life of the actor as he began his Hollywood career and his pivot to military service before starring in It’s a Wonderful Life.
KJ Apa, Vanessa Morgan and more stars from Riverdale have offered glimpses at their off-screen families. Apa, who plays Archie Andrews in the popular CW series, became a father when his girlfriend Clara Berry gave birth to their son in September 2021. “He is a perfect perfection,” the model captioned the Instagram announcement, which included […]
“I have always been a huge James Stewart fan and feel so honored I get to bring his story to life,” Apa said in a statement regarding his role, per multiple outlets. “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.”
Stewart’s family is also thrilled about Apa portraying the legendary actor. (Stewart’s daughter, Kelly Stewart-Harcourt, will also serve as an executive producer on the film.)
“My family and I are delighted and excited that KJ Apa has agreed to play my father in this film,” Stewart-Harcourt said in a statement. “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 cast will also include Jason Alexander, Max Casella, Sarah Drew, Julian Works and Jen Lilley.
