The late Christopher Reeves is best known for his role in 1978’s Superman and some of its sequels. It has been nineteen years since the actor died at 52 after a series of health problems following a tragic accident. Nearly two decades later, the Emmy award-winning actor is still revered by the fitness world and Superman fans, among whom believe he was the most outstanding actor to play the role so far.
A video of Reeves speaking about his career and performing scenes resurfaced on Instagram, sparking nostalgia among his fans. “My only professional intention in life is to continue to improve as an actor. Period! And whether that means working in Timbuktu or on Broadway, who cares, It’s all about doing good work,” he said in the video.
Fan reactions to the resurfaced video
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The clip brought back memories to Reeves’ fans, who dropped heartfelt comments under the video. “Improving as an Actor! Christopher Reeve talks about doing good work!…Thank You to my family at @fox_archives for this rare and amazing interview clip,” the caption read.
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The post, which has amassed over twenty thousand likes, had comments that mostly affirmed Reeves as the best Superman act so far. “A true class act and the best actor to ever portray the man of steel. RIP Chris Reeve,” a fan gushed.
“Literally tearing up as I watched this. This man and his portrayal of Superman means so much to me, as a fan, an actor, and a human being,” actor Richard Bervard wrote. Another heartbroken fan who called Reeves his “hero” wished the award-winning actor was still alive.
Reeve’s accident and death
Reeves enjoyed Equestrian sports, making him a natural choice for the Superman act, as he did his own stunts. Sadly his love for the sport would completely change his life in the mid-’90s. On May 25th, 1995, he fell from a horse, resulting in him being paralyzed from the neck down and being wheelchair-bound for years.
Rather than back down, Reeves used his tragedy and fame to advocate for disabilities and was US’ most recognizable spokesman for spinal cord research at the time. He also advocated for stem cell research with an impact that echoes long after his death. Sadly, Reeves died of complications due to a systemic infection after living quadriplegic for nine years.