Inspiring Biopic About a Real American Hero ‘Soul on Fire’ to Get a Netflix Release, Here’s Everything to Know

Published 12/30/2025, 11:51 AM EST

Some films, stories, and moments are meant to stay with people for a long time, and Soul on Fire is one such story. It narrates the inspirational true journey of a brilliant man who overcomes his toughest battles. It shows how resilient the human spirit can be and how a person is capable of conquering even the greatest challenges.

As Soul on Fire is set to release on Netflix, there is much to know about the cast of the movie and the legendary man behind it.

The Soul on Fire is an inspirational journey

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The Soul on Fire is based on John O’Leary’s bestselling memoir On Fire and brings his real-life story to the screen. It follows the story of John O’Leary, who was just nine years old when a garage accident left him burned on 100% of his body. Doctors gave him less than a one percent chance of survival, making his recovery one of the most remarkable aspects of the story.

The film focuses on John O’Leary’s difficult and motivational healing process and his family’s support for him throughout the time. Released theatrically on 10 October, 2025, the movie is now set to begin streaming on Netflix on Thursday, January 8, 2026. 

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The story has already earned strong praise from both critics and viewers, with the film currently holding a 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Moreover, for this powerful story, the director, Sean McNamara, also brings a powerhouse cast. 

Who stars in the Soul on Fire?

The film Soul on Fire, which brings John O’Leary’s inspirational true story to life, stars some talented actors and veteran actors. Joel Courtney portrays John O’Leary in the movie, and he is joined by John Corbett and Stéphanie Szostak.

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Supporting roles were played by William H. Macy, DeVon Franklin, and Masey McLain. Directed by Sean McNamara, who previously adapted the survival story Soul Surfer, the film’s screenplay was adapted by Gregory Poirier. Thanks to the talented cast's impressive performance and the staff's incredible efforts, this powerful real-life story has already drawn attention from critics and audiences alike.

This is yet another impressive addition to the collection of book-to-screen movies on Netflix. When the film drops on Netflix next year, John O’Leary’s incredible story will reach more people and motivate them, and perhaps bring hope to the lives of those who need it.

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Will you watch Soul On Fire when it drops on January, 2026? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.

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Pritha Debroy

62 articles

Pritha Debroy is an Entertainment writer at NetflixJunkie who can seamlessly switch between breaking down an NBA play and obsessing over the latest K-drama twist. She has written over 3,400 NBA and NFL articles, but her true joy lies in diving into Netflix’s trendiest shows—unpacking themes, stories, and yes, the occasional celebrity chaos. When she is not writing, you’ll find her devouring thrillers (anything by Freida McFadden is an instant yes), revisiting comfort classics like 10 Things I Hate About You and 27 Dresses, or hunting for her next binge-worthy series.

Edited By: Hriddhi Maitra

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