Heaven Can Wait

Joe Pendleton, a second-string quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams, suffers a knee injury but continues to practice diligently. His teammates and coach notice his impressive form and potential, setting the stage for a pivotal opportunity in his football career.

On Joe's birthday, his friend Max Corkle brings a cake and delivers exciting news: Joe has been chosen to start the game against the Dallas Cowboys. This moment fills Joe with determination to step up his training and seize the opportunity in front of him.

While bicycling through a tunnel, Joe is tragically hit by a van, leading to his untimely death. This unexpected turn of events sends Joe's soul to the afterlife, where he begins to confront his new reality.

Upon arriving at the way station to Heaven, Joe is accompanied by The Escort, who informs him about his impending departure to the final destination. After a confusing discussion with the archangel Mr. Jordan, Joe realizes that his arrival was premature and that an error led to his current situation.

With Joe's original body cremated, Mr. Jordan reveals the only option is for Joe to inhabit another man's body. They begin searching for a suitable candidate whose death remains undiscovered, leading them to millionaire Leo Farnsworth.

At Farnsworth's estate, Joe witnesses the scheming of Julia Farnsworth and her lover, Tony Abbott, as they plot to murder Leo Farnsworth by drowning him. This nefarious act adds urgency to Joe's need to find a new body to inhabit.

Joe successfully occupies Farnsworth's body after the murder attempt, but struggles to reconcile his true identity. Although he sees himself as Joe Pendleton internally, others perceive him as the wealthy industrialist, creating comedic and complex situations.

Joe meets schoolteacher Betty Logan during a discussion about the detrimental effects of Farnsworth's business plans on her hometown. Captivated by Betty, Joe feels inspired to help her while navigating the complexities of his new identity.

During a company board meeting, Joe passionately speaks out about ethical business practices, utilizing his football background as an analogy. His performance astounds the attendees and further solidifies his place as the new 'Farnsworth'.

After impressing the board, Joe takes Betty out for dinner, where they share a deeper connection. As they discuss their feelings, Joe expresses his desire to divorce Julia, further complicating his new life as Farnsworth.

Joe convinces his friend Max to train him to try out for the Rams as quarterback. Initially doubtful, Max becomes a believer when Joe performs uniquely on the saxophone, asserting his true identity and ambition.

After rigorous training, Joe acquires ownership of the Los Angeles Rams and is set to play quarterback. His unconventional journey sparks skepticism but ultimately leads to unexpected camaraderie with his new teammates.

In a high-pressure Super Bowl against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Joe steps in as quarterback after Tom Jarrett is injured. He leads the Rams to victory, showcasing his skills and determination while living out a second chance at life.

Following the Super Bowl victory, Mr. Jordan informs Joe that he will have to forfeit his memories and life as Joe Pendleton. This decision weighs heavily as Joe transitions fully into Tom Jarrett’s identity, losing the essence of who he once was.

As Joe, now living as Tom, exits the stadium, he crosses paths with Betty. Although he doesn't recognize her, their connection is evident as they agree to go for coffee, hinting at the potential for a new relationship that bridges their pasts.