The late Superman star Christopher Reeve is being remembered not only for his iconic Hollywood career but also for his strong moral convictions and public advocacy. According to the filmmakers behind the new documentary Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story, the beloved actor would have spoken out against Donald Trump if he were alive today.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, directors Peter Ettedgui and Ian Bonhôte highlighted Reeve’s lifelong commitment to activism—work that became even more visible after his tragic horse-riding accident in 1995 that left him paralyzed from the neck down.

“Even before the accident, Christopher was outspoken,” Ettedgui said. “He stood for issues like artistic expression and housing. There was a certain property developer in New York who wanted to develop a horrific modern town plan, and Reeve led the objections to it. The property developer was, of course, Donald Trump.”

The filmmakers said actor Jeff Daniels, who worked with Reeve on Broadway in 1980, told them that Reeve might have even considered running against Trump. Bonhôte added, “But he wouldn’t have entered it for his own gain. The way he was engaged with people was not just for alliance and power; he saw that things could be changed for the better for the American people.”

Ettedgui also reflected on Reeve’s character. “He grew up in a privileged, possibly even slightly entitled background, but he was a very kind man. He realized that he had certain advantages in life, and he always evinced that kindness and empathy with other people. But it took on a whole new nature after the accident.”

A Voice For the Vulnerable

Following his accident, Reeve became a powerful advocate for the disabled community. His courage in the face of suffering inspired millions and highlighted the importance of medical research, accessibility, and compassion toward those living with disabilities. For many, his life reflected a deep truth echoed in Scripture: that strength is often made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

During his lifetime, Reeve often leaned toward progressive politics, endorsing Democratic candidates like Bill Clinton and Al Gore. He even spoke at the 1996 Democratic National Convention just a year after his accident, urging greater support for disability rights. He was also outspoken in his criticism of Republican presidents Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush, particularly over the issue of embryonic stem cell research.

Interestingly, his criticism of Trump was not merely hypothetical. In the late 1980s, Reeve directly called out Trump’s real estate developments, describing them as “the American dream gone berserk.”

A Legacy of Courage and Conviction

Though Christopher Reeve passed away in 2004, his legacy continues to shine through the work of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, which advocates for individuals living with paralysis.

While opinions on politics vary widely within the Christian community, Reeve’s example offers a reminder of the call to speak up for the vulnerable, defend the powerless, and use one’s influence for the common good. Proverbs 31:8-9 declares, “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves… defend the rights of the poor and needy.”