There’s a scene in “It’s a Wonderful Life” where George Bailey sits in a bar. He’s struggling, at the end of his rope. He prays for help and begins crying. It’s one of the most emotional scenes in film history and makes us all ugly-cry every Christmas.
What some people may not realize is that actor Jimmy Stewart, who plays Bailey in the movie, was really crying.
He was on a Hollywood soundstage, in front of a crew of hundreds, really pouring his heart out. Crying wasn’t even in the script. The take even surprised the director, Frank Capra, who couldn’t get Stewart to do it again for another shot.
George Bailey's Prayer It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
As Stewart sat there, pretending to be George Bailey reflecting on his life, the actor apparently began reflecting on his own life—especially his experiences in World War II. And his momentary breakdown made cinema history.
“Jimmy,” a new movie about Stewart’s wartime life, hits theaters Nov. 6, 2026, and it’s here to bring the other half of his life back into the spotlight, connecting his dots in a way most people have never seen: the Oscar-winning actor, the combat pilot, the commander, and the guy who came home changed.
If you’ve ever loved “It’s a Wonderful Life” or “The Philadelphia Story,” you already know Jimmy Stewart could play a man holding two truths at once.
And because this story is about service, it’s also trying to give back.
Alongside the film, Burns & Co. Entertainment has launched a Give Back campaign with Vet Tix to help put butts in theater seats, specifically butts belonging to those who serve.
The goal is bold and specific: to secure one million donated movie tickets for active-duty military members, veterans, first responders, and their families to see “Jimmy” in theaters. All donations to the Give Back campaign are 100% tax deductible, and 100% of the proceeds go towards donated tickets.
It’s one of those rare campaigns where the action matches the message. A film about service is pairing itself with a way to serve. A story about kindness is asking people to practice it, not just clap for it.
So watch the trailer. Share it with someone who’d appreciate it. And if you’re able, help fill a few seats for the folks who’ve spent their lives standing the watch.
JIMMY Trailer (2026) KJ Apa, James Stewart Biopic
Directed by Aaron Burns, “Jimmy” stars KJ Apa (“Riverdale”) as Jimmy Stewart and Kara Killmer (“Chicago Fire”) as Lady Julia. The cast also includes Neal McDonough (“Band of Brothers”), Max Casella (“Tulsa King”), Jason Alexander (“Seinfeld”), Christopher McDonald (“Happy Gilmore”), Sarah Drew (“Grey’s Anatomy”), Rob Riggle (“12 Strong”), Julian Works (“Mending the Line”), and Jen Lilley (“The Artist”).
To learn more about “Jimmy,” visit the film’s official website, follow @jimmystewartmovie on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, and @jimmymovie2026 on X.
