Profile of the Day: James Stewart

Posted December 20, 2017 by Amanda | No Comment

James Stewart in It’s a Wonderful Life

What’s your favorite holiday movie? On this day in 1946, It’s a Wonderful Life premiered in New York City. The holiday classic starred James Stewart in his first film after taking a break from Hollywood to serve in the U.S. Air Force during World War II.

The film was based on the short story, “The Greatest Gift,” written by Philip Van Doren Stern. Stern had self-published the story as a palm-sized booklet and printed about 200 copies to give to friends as Christmas gifts. The story then caught the attention of a producer at RKO Pictures.

Directed by Frank Capra, It’s a Wonderful Life was not immediately embraced by audiences or critics. Despite the mix reviews and disappointing performance at the box office, the movie would earn five Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and a Best Actor nod for Stewart. Since its release, the film has become a holiday staple and is widely considered to be one of the most beloved films in American cinema.

Do you remember watching it for the first time? Has it become a part of your holiday traditions?

Explore star James Stewart’s family tree and share how you’re related!