History of Christopher Reeve in Timeline
Christopher Reeve was an American actor, director, author, and activist most recognized for his portrayal of Superman. Born in New York City in 1952, Reeve developed a love for acting at a young age. He honed his craft at Cornell University and the Juilliard School, making his Broadway debut in 1976. While he achieved international fame for his role in the Superman franchise, Reeve pursued diverse roles in theater and film, seeking out characters with depth and complexity. His commitment to his craft was evident in critically acclaimed performances in films like "The Bostonians," "Street Smart," and "The Remains of the Day," as well as in plays such as "Fifth of July" and "The Aspern Papers." Beyond acting, Reeve was a passionate advocate for disability rights.
September 25, 1952: Birth of Christopher Reeve
On September 25, 1952, Christopher D'Olier Reeve was born in New York City to Barbara Pitney Lamb, a journalist, and Franklin D'Olier Reeve, a teacher, novelist, poet, and scholar.
1956: Divorce and Move to Princeton
Christopher Reeve's parents divorced in 1956, leading to a significant change in his childhood. His mother moved with him and his younger brother to Princeton, New Jersey, where they attended Nassau Street School and later Princeton Country Day School.
1957: Source Material for "Village of the Damned"
"The Midwich Cuckoos," the 1957 novel by John Wyndham, served as the basis for two film adaptations titled "Village of the Damned."
1960: First Adaptation of "Village of the Damned"
The first British film adaptation of "Village of the Damned" was released in 1960.
1962: Discovering Passion for Acting
At the age of nine, Christopher Reeve discovered his love for acting when he was cast in an amateur production of the operetta "The Yeomen of the Guard." This experience ignited a lifelong passion that would shape his future career.
June 1970: Graduation and Pursuit of Acting
After graduating from Princeton Day School in June 1970, Christopher Reeve participated in plays in Boothbay, Maine, before ultimately deciding to pursue a formal education in acting. He enrolled at Cornell University, where he further honed his skills.
1973: Enrollment at Juilliard
Christopher Reeve is accepted into the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City, marking a significant milestone in his pursuit of a professional acting career.
1973: Juilliard and Friendship with Robin Williams
During his time at Juilliard, Christopher Reeve crossed paths with fellow aspiring actor Robin Williams. The two formed a close bond and shared classes together, learning from each other's unique approaches to acting.
1973: Richard Lester's Previous Work
Richard Lester, who took over directing "Superman II" after Richard Donner's departure, had previously worked with the producers on "The Three Musketeers" (1973) and "The Four Musketeers" (1974).
1974: Graduation from Cornell and Early Acting Roles
Christopher Reeve graduates from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Arts degree while simultaneously juggling a burgeoning acting career. He takes on the role of Ben Harper in the soap opera "Love of Life," gaining valuable experience in the world of television acting.
1974: Start of "Love of Life" Role
Christopher Reeve lands the role of Ben Harper in the soap opera "Love of Life," marking one of his earliest professional acting experiences.
1974: Richard Lester's Previous Work
Richard Lester, who took over directing "Superman II" after Richard Donner's departure, had previously worked with the producers on "The Three Musketeers" (1973) and "The Four Musketeers" (1974).
1975: Brief Exploration of Scientology
In 1975, Christopher Reeve briefly explored the teachings of Scientology but ultimately decided against becoming a member. He later expressed critical views of the organization.
1975: Completion of Juilliard Program
Christopher Reeve completes his studies at Juilliard, having honed his craft under the tutelage of renowned instructors and alongside fellow aspiring actors.
1975: Broadway Role in "A Matter of Gravity"
Christopher Reeve is cast in the Broadway play "A Matter of Gravity" alongside the legendary Katharine Hepburn, who personally selects him for the role.
1976: Broadway Debut
Christopher Reeve makes his Broadway debut, marking a significant step in his acting career.
1976: Stage Play Collaboration with Katharine Hepburn
In 1976, Christopher Reeve starred alongside Katharine Hepburn in the play "A Matter of Gravity." Reeve dropped out of the play when it moved to Los Angeles.
1978: Post-"Superman" Role
After the success of "Superman" (1978), Christopher Reeve's first new role was in the 1980 romantic fantasy film "Somewhere in Time."
1978: Release of "Superman"
Christopher Reeve achieves international fame for his portrayal of the title character in the film "Superman."
1978: Film Debut and Stage Play
Christopher Reeve made his Hollywood debut in a small role in the film "Gray Lady Down" (1978). He also starred in the play "My Life" at the Circle Repertory Company.
1978: Securing the Role of Superman
In 1978, Christopher Reeve was chosen to play the iconic role of Clark Kent / Superman in Richard Donner's "Superman". Despite initial skepticism from producers, Reeve's audition and his vision for a modern Superman won them over.
December 20, 1979: Birth of Son, Matthew Exton Reeve
Christopher Reeve's son, Matthew Exton Reeve, was born in London on December 20, 1979.
1979: Filming of "Somewhere in Time"
"Somewhere in Time," starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour, was filmed in mid-1979 on Mackinac Island, Michigan, using the Grand Hotel as a primary location. Reeve considered it his favorite filming experience.
1979: Philanthropic Work and Special Olympics Coaching
In 1979, Christopher Reeve served as a track and field coach at the Special Olympics. He was also involved with the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Save the Children.
1980: Release of "Somewhere in Time"
Christopher Reeve starred in the romantic fantasy film "Somewhere in Time," released in 1980.
1980: Somewhere in Time Release and Reception
"Somewhere in Time," starring Christopher Reeve, was released in 1980. Despite initial hopes, the film received negative reviews and was commercially unsuccessful, partly due to an actor's strike hindering publicity.
1982: Exploring Diverse Roles: "Deathtrap" and "Monsignor"
In 1982, Reeve showcased his versatility by starring in two contrasting films: the well-received dark comedy "Deathtrap" and the controversial "Monsignor," where he portrayed a morally complex Catholic priest during World War II. Reeve attributed the latter's failure to poor editing.
December 1983: Birth of Daughter
Christopher Reeve's daughter was born in December 1983 in London.
1983: Release of "Superman III" and Critical Reception
"Superman III," directed by Richard Lester, was released in 1983. Christopher Reeve expressed dissatisfaction with the film's comedic direction, believing it detracted from the Superman character's credibility. Despite some praise for Reeve's portrayal of Evil Superman, the film received generally negative reviews.
1983: Physical Transformation for Superman III
Christopher Reeve underwent further physical training for "Superman III" (1983), gaining more muscle mass. However, he later adopted a more cardiovascular approach for "Superman IV: The Quest for Peace" (1987).
1984: Appearance in "The Bostonians"
Christopher Reeve stars in the critically acclaimed film "The Bostonians," showcasing his versatility as an actor.
1984: Critical Acclaim for "The Bostonians"
In 1984, Reeve starred in "The Bostonians" alongside Vanessa Redgrave. Despite a significantly reduced salary, Reeve embraced the role, which garnered critical acclaim, with The New York Times praising it as a superb literary adaptation. Katharine Hepburn even commended Reeve's performance.
1984: Stage Appearances and Literary Adaptations
Reeve continued to diversify his portfolio in 1984 with stage performances in "The Aspern Papers," "The Royal Family," and a modern take on "The Marriage of Figaro."
1985: Beginning Horse Riding
In 1985, Christopher Reeve, initially allergic to horses, took up horse riding for his role in the film "Anna Karenina." He managed his allergies with antihistamines and trained diligently on Martha's Vineyard.
1985: Celebrating Dinosaurs and Comic Book Legacy
In 1985, Reeve indulged his childhood passion for dinosaurs by hosting the documentary "Dinosaur!" He also received recognition from DC Comics for his iconic portrayal of Superman in the company's 50th-anniversary publication.
1985: Venturing into "Anna Karenina"
Reeve took on the lead role in the 1985 adaptation of "Anna Karenina." However, Katharine Hepburn, upon hearing of his involvement, expressed her reservations, considering it a "terrible mistake."
June 1986: Emergency Appendectomy
In June 1986, Christopher Reeve underwent an emergency appendectomy.
1986: Collaboration with Morgan Freeman in "Street Smart"
Reeve starred alongside Morgan Freeman in the 1986 film "Street Smart." Though the film garnered positive reviews, it struggled at the box office, which Reeve attributed to inadequate marketing. Freeman's performance earned him his first Academy Award nomination.
February 1987: Personal and Professional Turmoil
After finishing "Superman IV" in February 1987, Reeve faced personal challenges, separating from Exton and experiencing depression. Professionally, the comedy "Switching Channels," marked by on-set conflicts, flopped, leading Reeve to believe his star power was waning.
February 1987: Separation from Gae Exton
In February 1987, Christopher Reeve and Gae Exton decided to separate amicably. They maintained joint custody of their children, Matthew and Alexandra. Reeve relocated to New York, while his children remained in London with their mother.
March 1987: Discussing Injuries on "The Tonight Show"
In March 1987, during an appearance on "The Tonight Show," Christopher Reeve openly discussed his history of leg injuries from skiing and a riding accident that resulted in three broken ribs.
June 1987: Meeting Dana Morosini
In June 1987, Christopher Reeve's life took a significant turn when he crossed paths with Dana Morosini, a talented singer and actress who would later become his wife.
1987: Release and Reception of "Superman IV: The Quest for Peace"
"Superman IV: The Quest for Peace" was released in 1987. Despite Reeve's involvement in the script, the film, produced on a lower budget by Cannon Films, was poorly received both critically and commercially. Reeve himself later admitted it was best not to dwell on the film.
1987: Focus on Cardiovascular Workouts
Christopher Reeve decided to focus on cardiovascular workouts for "Superman IV: The Quest for Peace" (1987) for health reasons.
1987: Performance in "Street Smart"
Christopher Reeve delivers a notable performance in the film "Street Smart," further solidifying his reputation as a talented actor.
1987: Reeve's Human Rights Activism in Chile
In 1987, Christopher Reeve bravely traveled to Chile to protest against Augusto Pinochet's regime and its threat to execute 77 actors. His involvement, alongside Ariel Dorfman, earned him recognition and accolades, including Chile's highest honor for foreigners.
1988: Estrangement from Father
Christopher Reeve's relationship with his father becomes strained, leading to a period of limited communication.
1989: Starting Eventing
By 1989, Christopher Reeve's passion for horse riding had grown, leading him to embrace the challenging equestrian sport of eventing. His allergies, once a hindrance, had subsided.
1989: Co-founding the Creative Coalition
Christopher Reeve, along with Ron Silver, Susan Sarandon, Alec Baldwin, and Blythe Danner, co-founded the Creative Coalition in 1989, aiming to engage celebrities in political discourse.
1990: From Civil War Drama to Critical Acclaim
Reeve starred in "The Rose and the Jackal," a Civil War film, in 1990. Later that year, he took on the role of Lewis in "The Remains of the Day," a critically acclaimed film nominated for eight Academy Awards.
1991: Living with Dana Morosini
By 1991, Christopher Reeve and Dana Morosini were sharing a home. However, Reeve's past experiences with divorce and failed relationships within his family made him hesitant about marriage.
April 1992: Marriage to Dana Morosini
After a period of self-reflection and therapy, Christopher Reeve married Dana Morosini in April 1992. Their son was born later that year.
1992: Christopher Reeve's Wedding and Early Views on Faith
In 1992, Christopher Reeve married Dana, an event he described as his "first act of faith." Despite facing challenges after his accident, Reeve initially struggled to find solace in prayer and questioned why he couldn't find God despite his circumstances.
1992: Exploring Darker Roles on Television
In the early 1990s, Reeve took on challenging roles in television movies. In "Bump in the Night," he portrayed a child molester, a role he felt was important for raising awareness. In "Mortal Sins," he played a Catholic priest grappling with a murderer's confession.
1992: Venturing into Comedy with "Noises Off"
In 1992, Reeve starred in the movie comedy "Noises Off," further demonstrating his range as an actor.
1993: Role in "The Remains of the Day"
Christopher Reeve takes on a role in the critically acclaimed film "The Remains of the Day," demonstrating his ability to portray complex characters.
1993: Sale of Superman Rights and Canceled "Superman Reborn"
The Salkinds sold the rights to Superman to Warner Bros. in 1993. A planned fifth film, "Superman Reborn," was canceled due to studio changes, the poor performance of "Superman IV," and Reeve's accident in 1995.
1994: Elected Co-President of the Creative Coalition
Reeve's commitment to the Creative Coalition led to his election as co-president in 1994. The organization's growing influence and impact on political issues led to the Democratic Party approaching Reeve for a congressional run, an offer he declined.
1994: Training with Eastern Express ("Buck")
While filming "Village of the Damned," Christopher Reeve acquired a 12-year-old American thoroughbred named Eastern Express, affectionately known as "Buck." He dedicated himself to training with Buck in 1994.
May 27, 1995: Paralyzing Accident
On May 27, 1995, Christopher Reeve's life changed drastically when he was thrown from a horse during an equestrian competition in Culpeper, Virginia. This accident left him paralyzed from the neck down, requiring him to use a wheelchair and ventilator for the rest of his life.
June 1995: Uplifting Visit from Robin Williams
As Christopher Reeve faced a daunting operation to reattach his skull to his spine in June 1995, he experienced moments of profound anxiety. During a particularly low point, his close friend Robin Williams, disguised as a doctor, burst into his hospital room and performed a humorous act, bringing laughter and hope into Reeve's life.
December 1995: Returning Home to Pound Ridge
In December 1995, Christopher Reeve returned to his home in Pound Ridge, New York, after an extended period of hospitalization and rehabilitation. Despite requiring round-the-clock care, he embraced his new life with determination.
1995: Acting and Directing Aspirations Cut Short
Reeve had plans to star in "Kidnapped" and direct his first feature film, "Tell Me True," in 1995. However, a tragic horseback riding accident, which left him paralyzed, abruptly halted these plans.
1995: Beginning of Reconciliation with Father
Following Christopher Reeve's paralyzing accident, he and his father begin to mend their strained relationship, finding common ground in the face of adversity.
1995: Plans for Training Level Events
Christopher Reeve had ambitious plans for his equestrian pursuits. He aimed to participate in Training Level events in 1995.
August 26, 1996: Reeve's Advocacy for Spinal Cord Injury
On August 26, 1996, Reeve's dedication to raising awareness about spinal cord injuries was recognized with his appearance on the cover of Time magazine. His advocacy work, including hosting the Paralympics and speaking at the Democratic National Convention, brought attention to the issue.
1996: Reeve's Call to Action at the Academy Awards
In 1996, 10 months after his accident, Reeve made a powerful appearance at the Academy Awards, receiving a standing ovation. He urged Hollywood to utilize its platform to address social issues through filmmaking, emphasizing the industry's unique ability to tackle such topics.
1996: Advocacy and a Step Toward Tomorrow
In 1996, Reeve narrated the Emmy-winning HBO documentary "Without Pity: A Film About Abilities." He also made a brief acting appearance in the film "A Step Toward Tomorrow."
1996: Reeve's Impact on Jane Seymour
Jane Seymour, Reeve's co-star in "Somewhere in Time," named one of her twin sons Kristopher in 1996, honoring their enduring friendship.
1996: Aspirations for Preliminary Level Events
Looking ahead, Christopher Reeve set his sights on competing in Preliminary level events in 1996, demonstrating his dedication to progressing in the demanding sport of eventing.
1997: "Somewhere in Time" Gains Cult Status
By 1997, "Somewhere in Time" had become a cult classic, its popularity growing through cable screenings and video rentals. The International Network of Somewhere in Time Enthusiasts even fundraised for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for Reeve.
1997: Directorial Debut with "In the Gloaming"
Christopher Reeve directs the film "In the Gloaming," marking his first foray into directing after his accident.
1997: Directorial Debut and Critical Acclaim
In 1997, Christopher Reeve made his directorial debut with the HBO film "In the Gloaming." The film, starring Robert Sean Leonard, Glenn Close, Whoopi Goldberg, Bridget Fonda, and David Strathairn, garnered critical acclaim, winning four Cable Ace Awards and receiving five Emmy Award nominations, including one for Reeve for "Outstanding Director for a Miniseries or Special."
1997: Advocacy for Disability Legislation
In 1997, Reeve actively supported a bill to increase insurance coverage for catastrophically injured individuals. Although the bill faced defeat, it highlighted his commitment to improving the lives of those with disabilities.
April 25, 1998: Publication of "Still Me" and Grammy Award
Christopher Reeve's autobiography, "Still Me," was published on April 25, 1998, by Random House. The book was well-received, spending 11 weeks on the New York Times Best Seller list. Reeve's narration of the audiobook earned him a Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album.
1998: Producing and Starring in "Rear Window"
In 1998, Christopher Reeve took on the dual role of producer and star in "Rear Window," a remake of Alfred Hitchcock's 1954 classic. His performance earned him a Golden Globe nomination and a Screen Actors Guild Award.
1998: Embracing Life's Worth
In 1998, Christopher Reeve shared his evolved perspective on life after his accident. He expressed a profound appreciation for life, not out of obligation, but from a genuine belief in its inherent value. Reeve's words reflected his resilience and determination to live meaningfully despite the challenges he faced.
1998: Reconciliation with Father
In 1998, Christopher Reeve revealed in his writing that he had a complex relationship with his father, Franklin. He felt pressured to act older than he was to gain his father's approval. They experienced a period of estrangement between 1988 and 1995, but reconciled after Reeve's accident.
1998: Acting in "Rear Window" Remake
Christopher Reeve returns to acting following his accident, taking on a role in the television remake of Alfred Hitchcock's classic thriller "Rear Window."
1999: Establishment of the Christopher Reeve Foundation
In 1999, the Christopher Reeve Foundation was formed, merging two existing foundations. This organization, dedicated to accelerating spinal cord research and improving the quality of life for those with disabilities, reflects Reeve's enduring legacy and impact.
1999: Supporting the Work Incentives Improvement Act
Reeve's advocacy extended to supporting the Work Incentives Improvement Act in 1999. This legislation, which passed, aimed to empower individuals with disabilities to return to work while still receiving necessary benefits.
2000: Regaining Some Movement
In 2000, Christopher Reeve experienced a glimmer of hope as he began to regain some movement in his fingers and other parts of his body. This progress, attributed to his unwavering commitment to physical therapy, surprised his doctors.
2000: Guest Appearance on "Sesame Street"
In 2000, Christopher Reeve made guest appearances on the beloved children's television series "Sesame Street."
August 9, 2001: Reeve's Advocacy for Embryonic Stem Cell Research
On August 9, 2001, Reeve responded to President George W. Bush's policy on embryonic stem cell research funding. While initially viewing it as a positive step, Reeve later challenged the limitations imposed on research, advocating for broader scientific inquiry.
2001: Lobbying for Ethical Stem Cell Research
Reeve actively lobbied for the Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001, advocating for ethical and regulated somatic cell nuclear transfer research while opposing reproductive cloning. This stance underscored his commitment to responsible scientific advancements in stem cell research.
April 2002: Publication of "Nothing Is Impossible"
In April 2002, Random House published Christopher Reeve's second book, "Nothing Is Impossible." This work provided further insights into Reeve's worldview and the experiences that shaped his perspectives.
2002: Sensing Temperature Again
By 2002, Christopher Reeve's dedicated rehabilitation efforts led to further progress. He reported regaining the ability to sense hot and cold temperatures on a significant portion of his body, marking a significant milestone in his recovery.
2002: Advocating for Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer Research
Reeve continued his advocacy for somatic cell nuclear transfer research, arguing for its potential in stem cell implantation while emphasizing the importance of using a patient's own DNA. His efforts aimed to ensure the safety and ethical considerations of such research.
February 25, 2003: Memorable Role as Dr. Virgil Swann in "Smallville"
On February 25, 2003, Christopher Reeve made a poignant appearance in the television series "Smallville." He played Dr. Virgil Swann in the episode "Rosetta," a role that resonated deeply with fans. In the episode, Dr. Swann provides Clark Kent with crucial information about his Kryptonian origins and guides him toward using his powers for good.
July 2003: Reeve's Pursuit of Treatment and Inspiration in Israel
In July 2003, driven by his pursuit of advanced treatment for spinal cord injuries, Reeve traveled to Israel, a country he recognized as a leader in this field. His visit and positive interactions with Israelis highlighted the global impact of his advocacy and search for a cure.
June 2004: Reeve's UN Appeal for Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer
In June 2004, Reeve passionately addressed the United Nations through a videotaped message, urging them to reconsider a proposed ban on somatic cell nuclear transfer research. His appeal emphasized the potential benefits of this research for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
October 4, 2004: Reeve's Final Public Appearance
On October 4, 2004, Reeve made his final public appearance, speaking at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago in support of their work. This event marked the culmination of his tireless efforts to advance research and treatment for spinal cord injuries.
October 9, 2004: Reeve's Final Days and Unexpected Decline
On October 9, 2004, Reeve enjoyed his son's hockey game, a testament to his enduring spirit and love for family. Tragically, that same night, he suffered cardiac arrest following treatment for an infection, marking the beginning of his final hours.
October 10, 2004: Death of Christopher Reeve
Christopher Reeve passed away on October 10, 2004, due to heart failure. His death occurred near his home in Westchester County, New York.
2004: Death and Legacy
Christopher Reeve's death in 2004 marked the end of a life that was both triumphant and tragic. He is remembered not only for his iconic role as Superman but also for his courage and advocacy for spinal cord injury research following his accident.
2004: Directing "The Brooke Ellison Story" and "Everyone's Hero"
In 2004, Christopher Reeve directed the A&E film "The Brooke Ellison Story," a testament to his commitment to stories of resilience. The film portrays the remarkable journey of Brooke Ellison, the first quadriplegic to graduate from Harvard University. During this time, Reeve was also directing the animated film "Everyone's Hero," a project close to his heart. Tragically, he passed away during the film's production.
August 9, 2005: Dana Reeve's Lung Cancer Diagnosis
On August 9, 2005, Dana Reeve, Christopher's wife and steadfast supporter, received a lung cancer diagnosis. This tragic event further underscored the couple's shared journey and Dana's unwavering commitment to their foundation's mission.
March 6, 2006: Dana Reeve's Passing and Foundation's Renaming
Dana Reeve sadly passed away on March 6, 2006, after battling lung cancer. Following her death, the foundation was renamed the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, solidifying their shared legacy and commitment to advancing spinal cord research and supporting individuals with disabilities.
November 2006: Release of "Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut"
"Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut" was released on DVD in November 2006. The film was dedicated to Christopher Reeve's memory.
September 25, 2021: Google Doodle Celebrates Christopher Reeve's 69th Birthday
On September 25, 2021, Google honored Christopher Reeve's 69th birthday with a Doodle in some countries.
2024: Release of "Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story" Documentary
The documentary "Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story," directed by Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, is set to be released in 2024. The film explores Reeve's life and the aftermath of his accident.