Christopher Reeve was one of the most iconic stars of the 1970s, adored by many and a heartthrob for countless women. However, a tragic accident left him confined to a wheelchair, grateful simply to be alive.

Christopher enjoyed a thriving acting career for two decades before his life took a dramatic turn in 1995. Best known for his portrayal of Clark Kent in the “Superman” films, Christopher was accustomed to playing the strong, heroic figure.

Outside of his Hollywood career, Christopher had a passion for horseriding and even competed in equestrian events from time to time. On May 27, 1995, during one such competition, his life was irrevocably changed.

The accident left Christopher paralyzed from the neck down, confining him to a wheelchair for the remainder of his life. He was only 42 years old at the time, with a young son and a devoted wife at home. Doctors told Christopher he would never regain mobility.

At the time of the accident, Will was not yet three years old. Christopher’s wife, Dana, took it upon herself to care for both her husband and son during this incredibly challenging period. Christopher often expressed deep gratitude for his wife’s unwavering support.

During his hospital stay, Christopher found joy in the visits from his wife and son, even while he was still under sedation. Once he became more lucid, he cherished watching his son repeatedly climb a nearby tree, which provided a welcome distraction from his condition.

Although Christopher’s severe injuries limited his ability to engage in activities his son enjoyed, he seemed to sense that his time was running out. He dedicated his final day to spending time with Will, doing whatever his young son wanted. On a Saturday morning, Christopher attended one of Will’s hockey games, as he had always made an effort to be present at his son’s sporting events. Afterward, they returned home to spend the rest of the day watching baseball together. Later that night, Christopher’s condition began to deteriorate.

While at his New York City apartment, Christopher went into cardiac arrest and soon slipped into a coma from which he never regained consciousness. He passed away the following Sunday at 5:30 p.m. in what was described as a “sudden” death.

Will was just eleven years old when his father died, leaving him and his mother to face life on their own. Tragically, it was only a few months later that another heartbreaking loss would leave Will reeling once again.