Recent claims from filmmakers have suggested that the late actor and activist Christopher Reeve would have opposed the current President, Donald Trump, if he had lived to see his presidency. The documentary ‘Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story’, directed by Peter Ettedgui and Ian Bonhôte, has led to these assertions based on the actor’s known advocacy and activism. This particular documentary highlights a wide range of issues that Reeve was passionate about, including disability rights, housing, and artistic freedom.
According to the documentary directors, Reeve’s activism was not limited to just disability rights; he was also known for his critical stance on several policies and development plans, including those associated with Donald Trump. Specifically, they pointed out an instance where Reeve had opposed a development project that was led by the property developer Donald Trump. This has become a part of the rationale that forms the basis of their claim. They also mentioned actor Jeff Daniels, who had worked with Reeve in a Broadway play in 1980, and stated that Reeve would have run against Trump if he had been alive today, but more importantly, he would have done so for the betterment of the American people.
Moreover, the filmmakers noted that Reeve had been a consistent supporter of Democratic candidates like Bill Clinton and Al Gore. This aligns with his earlier advocacy on various issues, including his vocal criticism of Republican presidents such as Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush. Reeve was particularly vocal in his criticism of these figures for their policies regarding issues like embryonic stem cell research. This kind of political alignment further supports the idea that he would have opposed Trump’s policies, particularly on immigration and other contentious social issues. The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation has been contacted for a response, but no statement has been released yet.
In conclusion, the filmmakers are drawing attention to Reeve’s legacy as an advocate for social justice and public service. Their assertions are based on the actor’s past actions and political leanings, suggesting that he would have stood against Trump’s administration. While these claims are not officially confirmed by Reeve’s foundation, they provide insight into how Reeve’s values and beliefs might have influenced his political perspective had he lived to see Trump’s presidency.