Joe Pendleton, a passionate boxer and aspiring champion, is involved in a plane crash and is prematurely taken to heaven by an overzealous angel. Upon discovering the mistake, Mr. Jordan, a celestial overseer, informs Joe that his body has already been cremated and assists him in finding a suitable replacement. They settle on the recently murdered millionaire, Bruce Farnsworth, whose body Joe inhabits to continue his earthly life. Joe struggles with his new identity and circumstances but begins to adapt, especially as he starts to pursue new goals and interactions that challenge his prior ambitions.

As Joe navigates life in Farnsworth's body, he faces various obstacles, including integrating into Farnsworth’s complex personal and professional environment. This new existence is further complicated by the need to right the wrongs committed by the original Farnsworth. Along the way, Joe crosses paths with individuals who profoundly impact him, making his journey more intricate and emotionally charged as he endeavors to balance his original dreams with his responsibility towards the people in Farnsworth’s life.