Riverdale Star KJ Apa to Play Hollywood Icon James Stewart in Biopic

In a highly anticipated casting announcement, 28-year-old actor KJ Apa has been tapped to play the role of famed Hollywood star James "Jimmy" Stewart in an upcoming biopic. The film, titled "Jimmy," will be directed and produced by Aaron Burns and is set to chronicle Stewart's rise to fame, including his Academy Award-winning performance in the 1940 classic "The Philadelphia Story."

However, the biopic will also explore a lesser-known aspect of Stewart's life – his service as a combat pilot in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. After returning home from the war, Stewart went on to star in the beloved Frank Capra film "It's a Wonderful Life" in 1946.

"I have always been a huge James Stewart fan and feel so honored I get to bring his story to life," Apa, who is from New Zealand, said in a statement. "As someone from that generation of American men who stood for patriotism, integrity, and a deep sense of duty, I'm excited to portray this iconic figure."

Stewart's daughter, Kelly Stewart-Harcourt, who is serving as an executive producer on the project, expressed her family's enthusiasm for Apa's casting, stating, "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."

Apa will be joined on screen by a talented supporting cast, including Jason Alexander as Louis B. Mayer, Max Casella as Frank Capra, and Sarah Drew as Hedda Hopper, among others.