Honoring Christopher Reeve: Jane Seymour Reflects on Friendship and Legacy in Exclusive Interview

In an interview at the annual Oscar Wilde Awards, hosted by the US-Ireland Alliance, Jane Seymour paid tribute to her late friend Christopher Reeve. The conversation centered around the documentary Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story, which premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival on January 21.

Reflecting on their friendship, Seymour, 73, fondly remembered Reeve as “an amazing guy” – describing him as intelligent, fearless, and someone who cherished solitude while enjoying activities like flying airplanes, sailing, and horseback riding. The two actors had shared the screen in the 1980 film Somewhere in Time.

Seymour shared her anticipation for the public to learn more about Reeve through the documentary. She discussed the challenges he faced after a 1995 horseback riding accident left him paralyzed and dependent on a ventilator until his passing in 2004.

One of the toughest aspects for Reeve, Seymour explained, was losing his independence and the need for constant care. Despite the difficulties, Reeve remained determined to make a difference, particularly for individuals facing similar challenges. His memoir, Still Me, and his advocacy for spinal cord injury research showcased his resilience and commitment to helping others.

Seymour highlighted Reeve’s efforts to advance stem cell research, despite initial skepticism, and his refusal to accept the notion that recovery from spinal injuries was impossible. She emphasized his passion for making a difference and how he used his platform to advocate for change.

The documentary, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story, features interviews with Reeve’s family members and friends, offering intimate insights into his life and legacy. His children, Matthew, Alexandra, and Will, along with his late wife Dana, share memories and discuss their ongoing involvement with the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, dedicated to spinal cord injury research.

The film also includes contributions from Reeve’s friends in the entertainment industry, such as Whoopi Goldberg, Susan Sarandon, Jeff Daniels, and Glenn Close, providing a comprehensive tribute to his enduring impact.