Book excerpt: “Frank Capra: A Life” by Sam Wasson

October 31, 2026 / 2:44 PM EDT / CBS News

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Returning to movie screens after his service in World War II, actor Jimmy Stewart was nervous about appearing in Frank Capra's "It's a Wonderful Life" – a film now acknowledged as one of his very best.

In his biography of the director, "Frank Capra: A Life" (published by Harper), Hollywood historian Sam Wasson writes of how Capra helped shepherd Stewart back into the public limelight in a role that was perfectly suited to Stewart's talents – and in the process created a timeless classic.

Read the excerpt below – and don't miss Lee Cowan's report on Jimmy Stewart's post-WWII experience on "CBS Sunday Morning" November 1!

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Unlike Capra, Stewart refused to promote his return to Hollywood. His contract with Liberty stipulated that he was not to be made to discuss his heroism. "In all advertising and publicity issues by the corporation, or under its control," the relevant clause read, "the corporation will not mention or cause to be mentioned the part taken by the artist…

Original source: https://www.cbsnews.com/entertainment/