New Film Tells Inspiring Story of Burn Survivor John O’Leary

A man who survived severe burns as a child is sharing his incredible journey of resilience, claiming that God can redeem any story. The new movie, The Soul of the Soul (PG), narrates the real-life tale of John O’Leary, who faced a less than 1% chance of survival after suffering catastrophic burns at the age of nine in 1987. The incident occurred when he experimented with gasoline, resulting in full body burns that left him unable to move or speak.

Thanks to his supportive family, strong faith, and dedicated medical staff, O’Leary persevered. The film features Joel Courtney as O’Leary, alongside Masey McLain as his girlfriend, John Corbett as his father, and Devon Franklin as a nurse who played a crucial role in his recovery. Released this weekend, it draws from O’Leary’s autobiography of the same name.

Today, O’Leary is a sought-after motivational speaker, having shared his story over 2,700 times with various audiences across the U.S. But back in 1987, he was just an ordinary nine-year-old who suddenly found himself in a fight for his life. After witnessing some teens burn gasoline, he decided to try it himself one Saturday morning, grabbing a book on the subject and heading to the garage alone.

“My mom was with a few of my sisters; my dad was at work. Just a mischievous little boy with floppy bangs, trying to conduct a science experiment,” he recalled in an interview.

The gasoline ignited instantly, propelling him across the garage. While taught to stop, drop, and roll, he panicked and ran into the house instead.

“I was in a state of panic,” he admitted.

O’Leary sustained third-degree burns over 87% of his body. Initially overwhelmed by pain and despair, he referred to his situation as akin to a “death sentence.” Miraculously, his brother was there to cover him with a rug while his sister splashed water on him to help.

When he finally saw his mother in the hospital, her words resonated with him: “You take God’s hand. You fight harder than you’ve ever fought before. You walk forward with Him. Your dad and I will be with you.”

Doctors gave him a slim chance of survival, but he defied the odds, enduring five and a half months of grueling treatments and surgeries.

A life-changing sermon inspired him during his recovery, encouraging him to say “yes” to a life of purpose. Soon after, he spoke at a Girl Scouts meeting, which led to more speaking engagements with local organizations.

“Jesus stepped in as the victim of this tragic burn,” he reflected.

For O’Leary, his experiences carry a significant message for viewers. “God is not done with your story,” he emphasizes. Despite feeling insignificant at times, he believes a greater purpose was unfolding.

“You may see some part of yourself in that film—whether as a victim of burns, a parent, sibling, or friend. Recognize the beauty in your own life and how you can help others,” he suggested.

The Soul of the Soul is rated PG for themes related to burns and some suggestive content.

Originally published on October 7th, 2025.