What happens when one of Hollywood’s biggest stars puts his career aside to serve his country? And why aren’t we seeing more movies that celebrate stories like his?
On today’s Newsmakers at Noon, Denise and Hunter welcomed actor Julian Works for a terrific conversation about the upcoming film JIMMY, the remarkable true story of legendary actor and World War II pilot Jimmy Stewart.
Julian Works: Bringing an American Hero’s Story to the Screen
Julian, who plays Second Lieutenant Martinez in the film, shared his genuine passion for the project, his enthusiasm for the story being told, and what it meant to participate in a movie that celebrates patriotism, courage, service, and sacrifice.
Starring KJ Apa as Jimmy Stewart, JIMMY follows the beloved actor as he leaves Hollywood at the height of his career to serve his country during World War II, and later struggles to find his way back to civilian life and the movies.
One of the most interesting parts of our conversation was Julian’s enthusiasm for the film’s message. We talked about the noticeable void in today’s entertainment industry for movies that celebrate American heroes, traditional values, and inspirational true stories.
And Julian clearly believes audiences are hungry for more of them!
We also discussed what he hopes moviegoers, especially younger generations, will take away from Jimmy Stewart’s extraordinary life. It’s a story about more than Hollywood fame. It’s about answering the call to serve, overcoming adversity, and finding purpose.
Julian’s passion for the subject was infectious, and his message to audiences was a wonderful reminder of why stories like this deserve to be told.
The film opens nationwide November 6, 2026.
And here’s something special! Julian shared that veterans can receive free tickets to see JIMMY through Vet Tix.
Veterans can learn more at https://www.vettix.org/
Learn more about the film at https://www.jimmythemovie.com/
Oregon Parents Take Their School Closure Fight to the Capitol
We also discussed Wednesday’s rally at the Oregon Capitol, where parents and students protested proposed school closures and called on state leaders to intervene.
We revisited our conversation with gubernatorial candidate Christine Drazan about Salem-Keizer school closures, academic achievement, and the importance of putting students first.
Alex Stein Stirs Things Up in Oregon
Political comedian Alex Stein made appearances at Portland City Hall and the University of Oregon, generating plenty of controversy and confrontation.
We discussed free speech, political provocation, and the increasingly heated atmosphere surrounding public debate, particularly on college campuses.
A Little Halloween Fun!
We wrapped things up with a humorous political Halloween post and a reminder about Operation: Get Buddy Up, a FREE family holiday kickoff this Sunday, November 1, at 6 p.m.
The event features a giant 32-foot inflatable Buddy the Elf, Christmas lights, snow machines, hot chocolate, treats, and Santa Claus!
Location: 3535 Del Webb Avenue NE, Suite 130, Salem.
From a wonderful conversation about patriotism and the legacy of Jimmy Stewart to Oregon’s latest headlines, today’s show offered plenty to think about and a little fun along the way!
Links from Today’s Show
JIMMY, official movie website:
https://www.jimmythemovie.com/
JIMMY, movie tickets:
https://tickets.jimmythemovie.com/
Vet Tix, free movie tickets for eligible veterans:
https://www.vettix.org/
OPB, parents protest proposed school closures:
https://www.opb.org/article/2026/10/28/student-and-parent-protests-highlight-resistanc-to-portland-salem-closure-plans/
Alex Stein at Portland City Hall:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DfBSkOvPX5B/
University of Oregon appearance and protests:
https://lookouteugene-springfield.com/story/latest-news/2026/10/28/turning-point-usa-event-brings-right-wing-influencer-to-university-of-oregon-and-tempers-flare/
Halloween political humor:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=122319260030221849&set=a.122106269414221849&type=3
