Reeve: iconic as Superman

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'Superman' Christopher Reeve Dead

Christopher Reeve, the actor played Superman, has died at the age of 52.         

Reeve, who made the role of the superhero his own in the Superman movies of the 1970s and 80s, fell into a coma on Saturday after having a heart attack at his New York home.

The actor was paralysed from the neck down after a riding accident in 1995 and became an ardent campaigner for spinal reseach.         

Reeve was last week treated for a pressure wound, a common problem for people living with paralysis. However, the wound became infected which led to him becoming seriously ill.         

It is thought the infection contributed to his heart failure.         

Reeve was a virtual unknown before he shot to superstardom in the 1978 blockbuster Superman.         

The film's producers were looking for an little-known actor to star in the title role alongside Marlon Brando and Gene Hackman.         

Reeve auditioned for the role and producers were immediately impressed by his physical resemblance to the comic book hero.         

The film and its three sequels grossed £300 million and turned Reeve into a household name.         

However, Hollywood triumph turned to tragedy for Reeve in May 1995 when he broke his neck after being thrown from his horse during an equestrian competition in Virginia.         

Reeve needed months of therapy simply to enable him to breathe without the aid of a ventilator.         

Christopher Reeve

He emerged from his ordeal confined to a wheelchair and spent his time raising money for spinal research. He vowed that one day he would walk again.         

He also campaigned for better financial protection for people who suffer catastrophic injury and moved the audience at the Oscars to tears with a call for more films on social issues.         

He also managed to continue his film career, starring in a 1998 remake of Hitchcock's Rear Window.         

Two years ago Reeve reported that he had regained movement in some of his fingers and toes.         

However, his dream of walking again was never to be realised.         

Following the announcement of his death tributes poured in from around the world.         

Film director Michael Winner said: "He was the archetypal movie star. He had great skill and charisma as an actor. He grew to personify a heroic struggle against disability.         

"We all kind of believed we would one day see him walk again and instead we see him die really very young. It's terribly sad."         

His wife Dana, with whom the actor had three children, said: "I want to thank the millions of fans around the world who have supported and loved my husband over the years."