Christopher and Dana Reeve passed away tragically, leaving their only child together orphaned. Now an adult, their son honors their legacies, and many have noted his striking resemblance to his beloved father in numerous photos.
Christopher Reeve and Dana Reeve during Opening of “Merchant of Venice” on December 19, 1989, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Christopher Reeve was an American actor best known for portraying the title character in the movie “Superman” and its three sequels. He also starred in other films, including, “Speechless” and “The Remains of the Day.”
Christopher Reeve pictured standing before the Manhattan skyline dressed as the comic-book hero of the film “Superman,” on January 1, 1978, in New York | Source: Getty Images
Besides his noteworthy career, Christopher was also a family man. He married actress and singer Dana Reeve in April 1992 and they welcomed their only child together, son Will Reeve, two months later in June of that year.
Despite the joy of becoming a parent, Christopher’s life took a dramatic turn in 1995. While participating in a cross-country horse competition, he was involved in a freak accident that left him paralyzed from the neck down.
Christopher Reeve appears on a “20/20” special interview on September 29, 1995, in New Jersey. | Source: Getty Images
Christopher developed suicidal thoughts after waking up in the hospital. With his wife beside him, he asked her to “let him go.” The film director recalled that powerful moment in an interview.
Christopher Reeve and Dana Reeve during a special interview on “20/20” on September 29, 1995, in New Jersey | Source: Getty Images
“Without missing a beat, she looked me right in the eye and said, ‘But you’re still you and I love you,’” he remembered. From that point forward, he dedicated his time to gain full recovery so that he could walk again one day.
Christopher Reeve photographed on January 1, 1970, in New York. | Source: Getty Images
Through his political work, the New York native turned his focus to reformed healthcare and increasing research money for the study of the spinal cord and central nervous system.
Christopher Reeve testifies during a hearing on stem cell research on April 26, 2000, on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. | Source: Getty Images
Together, Christopher and Dana founded the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with paralysis.
Treat Williams, Meryl Streep, Christopher, and Dana Reeve at The Paralysis Association’s Annual benefit on November 19, 1996, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Tragically, the Reeve family faced a devastating loss when Christopher passed away from heart failure in October 2004 at the age of 52, leaving behind his wife and their then 12-year-old son.
Will, Christopher, and Dana Reeve during the 3rd Annual Tribeca Film Festival “House of D” premiere on May 7, 2004, in New York City | Source: Getty Images
Barely two years later, young Will suffered another heartbreaking loss when his mother, Dana, succumbed to lung cancer in March 2006 at the age of 44.
Will Reeve with his half-siblings, Alexandra and Matthew Reeve, at the Memorial for Dana Reeve, on April 10, 2006 | Source: Getty Images
Despite being orphaned at the age of 13, Will had fond memories of a normal upbringing with his parents. He recalled them reminding him to turn off the television, eat his vegetables, and go to bed—just like any other kid.
Will, Dana, and Christopher Reeve during the event honoring Christopher Reeve with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on April 15, 1997, in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images
Although he would often see his father on magazine aisles while at the grocery store growing up, Will emphasized that he had a “totally normal childhood.”
Will also shared that, despite his dad’s fame, Christopher always prioritized parenting above all else. However, he noted that his father’s paralysis placed limitations on the spontaneous activities they could have enjoyed together as a family.
Jason Priestley with Dana, Christopher, and Will Reeve at the Superskate 2001 charity hockey event on January 7, 2001 in New York City | Source: Getty Images
“That could be difficult, but my parents did such a good job of staying true to their values that I never felt deprived of a normal childhood, even though my experiences, at face value, were inherently different from other children my age,” said Will.
While Will’s parents didn’t live long enough to see him grow up, Dana Reeve had thoughtfully planned for her son’s future before her passing. She chose their neighbors, Ralph and Ann Pucci, to adopt Will, ensuring he would be cared for by people she trusted.
Will Reeve and Dana Reeve at the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation’s 13th Annual Gala on November 18, 2004, in New York City | Source: Getty Images
The couple, who have two children of their own, Nicole and Michael Pucci, warmly welcomed Will into their family. Will also received strong support from the wider community during this challenging time.
Will once gushed over the family of four saying, “The Puccis are…lifesavers. They are the very best people. […] They are the reason that I was able to emerge from the darkest period of my life – relatively unscathed.”
Nicole and Michael are close to him in age and they all used to play together as kids. Will even described Michael as his first best friend. Reflecting on his mother’s decision to have the Pucci’s be his guardians, he said it was the best decision she had ever made.