Fallen Giant Films, the production company founded by actor and filmmaker Randy J. Goodwin, has announced Kristoff, a powerful new documentary honoring the life, career, and legacy of the late Kristoff St. John — one of daytime television’s most beloved and groundbreaking Black actors.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Bobby Razak, Kristoff will chronicle St. John’s rise from a successful child actor to his career-defining role as Neil Winters on The Young and the Restless, where he became a pillar of the series for nearly 30 years. It will also explore his off-screen journey, including personal battles with mental health, the heartbreaking loss of his son, and the lasting impact he left on both television and the Black entertainment community.
Born in 1966, Kristoff St. John began acting at an early age, landing early roles on shows like Happy Days, The Bad News Bears, and the ABC miniseries Roots: The Next Generations. His breakout in daytime television came in 1989 with Generations, the first soap opera centered around a Black family, where he earned two Daytime Emmy nominations.
But it was his portrayal of Neil Winters on The Young and the Restless that cemented his legacy. Joining the cast in 1991, St. John brought depth, dignity, and charm to the role, earning two Daytime Emmy Awards and 10 NAACP Image Awards. His character helped shift the landscape of daytime TV, offering a nuanced portrayal of a Black professional man navigating family, love, and addiction — storylines that resonated with millions of viewers.
Sadly, St. John passed away in February 2019 at the age of 52. His death was ruled accidental, caused by hypertrophic heart disease and the effects of alcohol. In the years prior, he had openly discussed his struggles with mental health, particularly following the death of his son Julian, who died by suicide in 2014. St. John’s openness around grief, trauma, and healing made him an even more respected and relatable figure among fans and peers.
“Kristoff was more than just an incredibly talented actor. He was one of my closest friends, my brother,” said Goodwin, who was also St. John’s former roommate. “This documentary is both a heartfelt tribute and a truthful exploration of the amazing, complex person he was. With Bobby Razak directing, we’re confident this story will be portrayed with the emotional honesty and artistic vision Kristoff deserves.”
Joining the project is St. John’s ex-wife, five-time boxing champion Mia St. John, who shares two children with the actor and has remained an advocate for mental health awareness following Julian’s passing. Together, she and Goodwin are ensuring the story reflects both the public figure and the private man.
In addition to the documentary, a scripted biopic is currently in development to further explore St. John’s life and legacy.
Director Bobby Razak is known for emotionally charged documentaries including Fallen Soldier, Mask (on TapouT co-founder Charles Lewis), and Mexican Fighter. Goodwin’s producing credits include Look Like Somebody: The Ricky C. Simmons Story and The Holy Man. As an actor, he’s appeared in Star Trek: Picard, All American: Homecoming, Dynasty, and NCIS.
Kristoff is slated for release in early 2026.