by Michael Munn
First published 2013
James Stewart built his reputation as Hollywood's wholesome everyman, but Michael Munn uncovers the complex reality behind the beloved actor's public image. Drawing on personal friendships with Stewart and his wife Gloria, Munn exposes sides of the star that contradict his gentle screen persona. The biography traces Stewart's childhood struggles that shaped his character, his decorated service as a World War II bomber pilot, and his clandestine work as an FBI informant. Munn details Stewart's volatile temper, intricate romantic entanglements, and deep-seated shyness that coexisted with his fierce patriotism. The book examines Stewart's legendary friendship with Henry Fonda and chronicles his work on celebrated films including It's a Wonderful Life, Rear Window, The Philadelphia Story, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, and Anatomy of a Murder. Through interviews with Stewart's colleagues and intimates, Munn presents a portrait that balances the actor's genuine decency with his human flaws and contradictions.
Genres: biography, history, 20th-century, american
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Hollywood
Period: World War II
378 pages · Kindle Edition · Skyhorse