Christopher Reeve, renowned for his iconic portrayal of Superman in four films from 1978 to 1987, was not only a hero on screen but also in his personal life. The actor, who suffered a tragic horse riding accident in 1995 that left him paralyzed from the neck down, was father to three children: Matthew, Alexandra, and Will.
A new documentary titled “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story” offers an intimate look into Reeve’s life, chronicling his journey from beloved movie star to disability advocate. The film features rare home videos and interviews with Reeve’s children, providing
unprecedented insight into their family life.
Matthew Reeve, born on December 20, 1979, in London, is the eldest of Christopher’s children. He was born during Reeve’s ten-year
relationship with modeling executive Gae Exton. Matthew pursued a career in film production and directing after graduating from Brown University in 2002. His work includes the Emmy-nominated documentary “Christopher Reeve: Hope in Motion” and “Over The Water,” a film about World Champion kiteboarder Aaron Hadlow.
Alexandra Reeve Givens, born in 1983, is Christopher’s second child with Gae Exton. Unlike her father and brother, Alexandra chose a path in politics and law. She graduated from Yale and obtained her law degree from Columbia University. Alexandra’s career has spanned various roles, including teaching as an adjunct professor at Columbia, serving as chief counsel for IP and antitrust on the Senate Judiciary Committee, and founding the Institute for Technology Law & Policy at Georgetown Law. Currently, she serves as the president and CEO of the Center for Democracy & Technology.
Will Reeve, born on June 7, 1992, is Christopher’s youngest child and his only child with wife Dana Reeve. Will was just three years old when his father’s accident occurred and twelve when Christopher passed away. Tragedy struck again less than two years later when Dana died of lung cancer, leading Will to move in with a family friend. Despite these challenges, Will pursued a career in broadcast journalism after graduating from Middlebury College. He has worked for the MSG Network and ESPN, and is currently an ABC News correspondent, frequently appearing on “Good Morning America” and “World News Tonight with David Muir.”
All three children are actively involved with the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, serving on its board of directors. The foundation is dedicated to finding a cure for spinal cord injuries, continuing the work their father began after his accident.
The documentary not only highlights Christopher Reeve’s life and career but also sheds light on his relationship with his wife Dana, who stood by his side until his death in 2004. It features interviews with Gae Exton, Matthew and Alexandra’s mother, who bravely shares her side of the story for the first time on camera.
Christopher Reeve’s children remember him as a man of intense dedication and focus. Alexandra recalls, “My dad was an incredibly intense person. He did nothing at half effort.” This work ethic and commitment to making a difference in the world have clearly influenced his children’s career paths and life choices.
Will Reeve, who is set to make a cameo as a TV reporter in James Gunn’s upcoming Superman movie, reflected on his father’s legacy: “Heroism is so much more than superficial strength and a glossy image. It’s about integrity, showing up for your family, persevering through hard circumstances, and still having that joy for life. That was our dad.”
The documentary “Super/Man” offers a poignant and inspiring look at Christopher Reeve’s life, career, and enduring impact on his family and the world. It serves as a testament to his strength, resilience, and the lasting legacy he left behind through his children and his advocacy work.