Moving revelation from an upcoming documentary, “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story,” the late Christopher Reeve, renowned for his iconic role as Superman, shares how his wife’s simple yet profound words played a crucial role in his recovery following a life-altering accident.
Christopher Reeve, who gained international fame for his portrayal of Clark Kent in the 1978 film “Superman” and its sequels, faced a devastating turn of events in 1995 when a horseback riding accident left him paralyzed from the neck down. The new documentary sheds light on the emotional struggles Reeve faced during this challenging period.
In the trailer for the film, Reeve reflects on the despair he felt after the accident, questioning whether his life had been irreparably damaged. “I won’t be able to ski, sail, throw a ball to [my son],” Reeve remembered thinking. “Won’t be able to make love to Dana. Maybe we should let me go.”
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However, it was his wife Dana’s heartfelt response that shifted his perspective. “You’re still you,” she told him. “And I love you.” These seven words, as Reeve described, were pivotal in rekindling his will to live and continue fighting.
Reeve, who had worked with legendary actors like Katharine Hepburn and Charlton Heston before becoming synonymous with Superman, found his personal life and career forever changed by the accident. Despite the severe physical limitations imposed on him, he chose to channel his energy into positive endeavors.
In a 1998 interview, Reeve explained his philosophy on coping with such profound grief: “One is to stare out the window and gradually disintegrate. And the other is to mobilize and use all your resources, whatever they may be, to do something positive.” This determination led him to establish the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, dedicated to advancing research and treatment for paralysis.
The documentary, set to premiere on September 21, also features touching interviews with Reeve’s children—Matthew, Alexandra, and William—as well as tributes from notable friends such as Whoopi Goldberg, Susan Sarandon, Glenn Close, and Jeff Daniels.
Christopher Reeve passed away at the age of 52 in October 2004, and his wife Dana succumbed to lung cancer four years later. “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story” promises an intimate look at the life and legacy of a man who, despite facing overwhelming adversity, remained an inspiring figure to many.
