Actor Honors Motivational Icon's Father in Poignant Biopic Role

In a heartwarming tribute, actor John Corbett has opened up about his experience connecting with the late father of renowned motivational speaker John O'Leary while portraying him in the biopic "Soul on Fire."

Corbett, 64, revealed that he had the chance to meet with Dennis O'Leary, John's father, on the set of the film. Despite Dennis's declining health due to a 30-year battle with Parkinson's disease, Corbett made a conscious effort to form a connection with him. Though Dennis could barely speak or stand, Corbett said they were able to share a few laughs and smiles together.

Tragically, Dennis passed away in May at the age of 80, but not before seeing "a few bits" of Corbett's portrayal of him. Corbett expressed his hope that his performance did justice to Dennis and made him proud, stating, "When you try your best at anything, that's all you can do, and that's what it is."

The film, "Soul on Fire," tells the story of John O'Leary's journey from a devastating fire that left him with burns covering 100% of his body at age 9 to becoming a renowned motivational speaker. Corbett's heartfelt performance in honoring Dennis O'Leary's memory is sure to add an extra layer of poignancy to this inspiring biopic.