How many Ernest movies are there? Is Ernest P. Worrell dead? Jim Varney documentary is coming

Who is Ernest P. Worrell? Well, he's a comedic icon played by actor Jim Varney.

Who is Jim Varney? A Kentucky legend who will soon have a documentary about his life with unseen footage and more than 30 interviews speaking to "The Importance of Being Ernest."

Here's what we know about the documentary, the Ernest movies, how John Cena is tied to Ernest and more:

What is the Jim Varney / Ernest P. Worrell documentary?

A Jim Varney documentary about how the actor relates to his portrayal of comedic icon Ernest P. Worrell focuses on preserving the legacy of both characters. The film is titled "The Importance of Being Ernest."

Jim Varney documentary trailer: 'The Importance of Being Ernest'

What is the Jim Varney documentary movie, 'The Importance of Being Ernest' release date?

A release date has yet to be determined, according to the trailer. The film is currently in post-production. A distributor is still being sought for the movie.

How many Ernest movies are there?

There are 9 feature films starring Ernest P. Worrell. They include:

Ernest Goes to Africa

Ernest Goes to Camp

Ernest Goes to Jail

Ernest Goes to School

Ernest in the Army

Ernest Rides Again

Ernest Saves Christmas

Watch 'Ernest Saves Christmas' on Disney+

Ernest Scared Stupid

Slam Dunk Ernest

Watch 'Ernest Scared Stupid' on Prime Video

Ernest Goes to Camp movie trailer

Ernest Goes to Jail movie trailer

Ernest Scared Stupid movie trailer

Ernest Saves Christmas movie trailer

Did Ernest P. Worrell die? What was actor Jim Varney's cause of death?

Yes, Jim Varney died at the age of 50 on Feb. 10, 2000, in Nashville, Tennessee, according to biography.com. Varney was diagnosed with lung cancer in 1998 and informed the public in 1999 after surgery removed most of his right lung, and radiation treatments ensued.

WWE wrestler John Cena as Ernest P. Worrell? Petition seeks Jim Varney replacement for Ernest movies

A Change.org petition called for John Cena to take up the mantle for Jim Varney as Ernest P. Worrell, and recreate the magic. However, the petition was started in 2021 and currently has 351 supporters.

Chris Sims is a digital content producer for Midwest Connect Gannett. Follow him on Twitter:@ChrisFSims.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Jim Varney documentary 2025: When is Ernest movie release date? What we know