“Soul on Fire” Brings Miraculous True Story to the Big Screen
When nine-year-old John O’Leary struck a match in his family’s garage in St. Louis, it ignited a fireball explosion that burned 100% of his body and left him with less than a 1% chance of survival. He was just a child who made a dangerous mistake — pouring gasoline into a can and lighting a match, not realizing how deadly gasoline fumes can be in an enclosed space.
But that moment, which could have ended his life, became the beginning of something extraordinary.
A Miracle in Motion
John spent five months in the hospital, enduring dozens of surgeries and grueling physical therapy. But what defined his story wasn’t just the pain — it was the love and faith of those who surrounded him.
Neighbors prayed. His family never left his side. And one unexpected visitor — Jack Buck, the legendary St. Louis Cardinals announcer — became a steady source of encouragement. Buck told him, “Kid, you’re going to live,” and showed up again and again with hope, gifts, and unwavering belief.
A Life Transformed
John survived. But more than that, he learned to live with purpose. Over the years, he has become a bestselling author (On Fire), an international speaker, and an inspiration to millions around the world.
Today, his story is being told on the big screen through Soul On Fire, the new film from Sony Pictures’ AFFIRM Films. Starring Joel Courtney as O’Leary and William H. Macy as Jack Buck, the film has received an “A” CinemaScore and a 98% Rotten Tomatoes score, indicating how it’s connecting and inspiring audiences.
“To see people respond with such hope and joy reminds me of why we made this movie in the first place,” said John O’Leary. “SOUL ON FIRE isn’t just my story; it’s an invitation to live boldly after the fire.”
A Message That Spreads
Directed by Sean McNamara (Soul Surfer, Reagan), the film dramatizes O’Leary’s near-death experience, the faith and community that carried him through, and the mission that was born from the ashes.
Soul On Fire opened nationwide on October 10, 2025, and continues to inspire packed theaters.
