The lovely theme music for her, from "Superman", seems appropriate:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qD0RofPgoo8
2
Margot lived in a humble log home in the Paradise Valley of Montana. She was well known in Montana politics as an activist for progressive causes: environmental issues, Native rights, working with the Democratic wing of the Democratic Party... She was a warrior and will be greatly missed.
5
Thanks to Dick Donner, for bringing or casting her into a larger role enabling us all to enjoy her fine talent and enormous heart.
2
The comment from “Golf Widow” a few minutes ago is so perfect - “I can be Lois Lane”
Thank you MK for helping to open possibilities to a new generation so many moons ago.
2
Margot Kidder had a wonderful career before "Superman." I'm kind of surprised there's no mention of Margot Kidder's chilling work as twins in Brian de Palma's 1972 suspense/horror thriller "Sisters" or the charming, heartwarming 1970 film "Quackser Fortune Has a Cousin in the Bronx" with Gene Wilder.
5
Loved her in the 1980 film "Willie and Phil," one of Paul Mazurski's love letters to New York City (along with "Next Stop Greenwich Village" and "An Unmarried Woman."
I suggest folks dig around for this little chestnut of a movie.
I was very sad to learn, some years ago and after her Superman fame, that Ms. Kidder was found homeless, wandering the streets.
It was such a shock and testament to how fleeting supposed "fame" and money are. Health care bills put her in debt.
Is that the real American story? Only if WE THE PEOPLE allow it to continue.
4
Perhaps this is mostly due to luck of timing, but since the original Superman movie came out when I was in third grade, it has stuck with me as THE superhero movie of all time, and none of the modern day high tech, awesome special effect-laden films can compare.
Sitting in the theater with my friends, I was a little brunette girl who thought, "That's it -- I can be Lois Lane!" What a fun memory!
RIP, Ms. Kidder.
4
Kidder had the straightforward, focused quality shared by Patricia Neal and Debra Winger. She had such a solid presence about her.
If anyone knows NWT where she grew up - it starts snowing in September and is quite isolated. Atwood grew up across the country but in equally stark surroundings. It must be something in the water!
2
RIP. Margot also wrote for Counterpunch magazine.
3
Sigh. I had the worst crush on her when I saw Black Christmas in 1974 when I was ten. I never got over that.
She was part of a loose group of people who were friends in Hollywood; Brian DePalma, Scorcese, Spielberg, and others, as noted in the book "Easy Riders, Raging Bulls," before any of them got famous.
They were just a bunch of broke actors and directors hoping to get their shot. RIP Margot.
2
Strange that my initial flashback was to Ms. Kidder in a supporting role as "Mrs. Potter" to Dan Aykroyd's "Fred Garvin: Male Prostitute" on SNL in 1979.
"Ma'am, you're dealing here with a fully qualified male strumpet. I service the entire Quad Cities area - Moline, Rock Island, Davenport and Bettendorf. Why don't you give it a whirl? What have you got to lose?
3
"Ms. Kidder’s survivors include her daughter, Maggie McGuane; a sister, Annie; and two grandchildren."
And three brothers: John, Michael, and Peter.
3
Margot Kidder was simply delightful! She, Christopher Reeve, Gene Hackman and Valerie Perrine were the perfect Superman ensemble.
Thank you, Ms. Kidder, for empowering the girls who loved the comics.
1
Yes, Margot Kidder is the definitive Lois Lane, but it is sad how few of the tributes note the work she did before the stardom which she did not really relish. Even before a lovely, gentle role in The Great Waldo Pepper heralded her arrival on the US silver screen, Margot Kidder left a mark through the work she did in her native Canada, including in The Best Damn Fiddler from Calabogie to Kaladar for the National Film Board. She fairly sparkled on screen. Her keen intellect, far too often overlooked by Hollywood, was a core part of who she was as an actress and an activist, and surely limited her career. A courageous person who spoke out cogently about women’s rights, against war, and on behalf of mental health issues, it would be nice to see her remembered for more than the admittedly marvelous portrayal of Lois Lane. A sad loss.
5
Those put-downs of the 1978 movie, "Superman"! I would call those comments. . . .
. . .CRANKY!
C'm'on, guys! Lighten up!
Millions of Americans thought it FUN. Not at all "an imitation of the World Trade Center done in the shape of a carrot."
Boy! SOMEONE got up on the wrong side of bed.
Of course, part of it is--my goodness! I was YOUNG in 1978. In my late TWENTIES, would you believe? I got MARRIED in 1978--and would you believe THAT?
And I grieved for her costar, Mr. Reeves--when he suffered that horrendous accident. I grieved for him when he died.
And now Ms. Kidder. Debemur morti--says the poet. Death claims us all eventually. Hollywood stars. Politicians. You. Me.
Please don't forget Mr. Gene Hackman--who added TONS of pizzazz--TONS of wry, self-deprecating humor as Lex Luthor. Gosh! what a name--who ever thought it up?
In fact--the whole movie was delightful. I'm sorry, you cranky guys--I loved it. I loved the video clip provided courtesy of The New York Times. Thank you, New York Times. It took me back. It really did.
One last thought. "The Great Waldo Pepper."
Quirky? Oh yes! Very!
Delightful?
Oh yes! Very!
Rest in peace, Ms. Kidder.
And thank you.
2
Once, when I was at the gym in NYC, sitting on the floor waiting for my class, Margot Kidder came to pick up her stuff on the floor next to me. I was impressed by her down-to-earth friendly personality. She wasn't stuck up at all at being a famous actress.
2
One of the smartest and most courageous. Sorry I never got to visit in Montana. Miss you.
2
A talented and beautiful actress. She also did a TV show with James Garner in the early 1970's called Nichols, which was underrated, and was a precursor to his more successful Series, the classic "The Rockford Files." Gone too soon. RIP, Ms. Kidder.
1
Another of Canada's gifts to the world. From scrabbling along the frozen streets of Yellowknife to flying in the arms of Super Man. Great actress, great activist. A life well lived no matter the challenges.
3
Too young. It's very sad. I always liked her.
2
What about her spellbinding turn in Brian DePalma’s “Sisters”??! How could you omit that?
During the heyday of American cinema - late 60s-70s - as recounted in Peter Biskind’s “Easy Riders, Raging Bulls”, Kidder always kept company and had the respect of her esteemed peers.
She was so much more than Lois Lane. I will miss her.
17
Always liked her ... 'Some Kind Of Hero' is a great movie I really enjoy and very intense in 'Sisters'.
6
One of the most beautiful and distinctive actresses of her era. May she know peace.
9
I miss old superhero movies, where you really felt transported. That flight scene was magical.
Superhero movies these days may be bold and huge, but there is no magic, only mayhem.
11
I thought she was so perfect for the role of a woman , who superman would like...am sorry to say I did not see many of her other films...saw most of her roles on tv...may she rest in peace.
5
Margot Kidder was a Lois Lane for the "Charlie's Angels" era, when women broke out of the damsel-in-distress/femme fatale stereotypes and strode into danger on the side of good in the pursuit of a goal greater than themselves and their own personal lives.
Margot Kidder, Kate Jackson and Carrie Fisher in those iconic roles took literal or figurative cartoon characters and inhabited them with a crackling wit, electric intelligence, and a radiant energy that drew out the best from their co-stars, charming audiences with an enjoyably believable chemistry.
All three of those women, I would argue, were the true secret ingredient to their respective franchises, despite the fact that most considered the real draw to have been the cultural phenomena of their larger-than-life co-stars. Subsequent iterations suffered when writers and producers substituted other elements at the core of their franchises for the vibrant chemistry ignited by these three women.
Around the same time, we started fixating on antiheroes rather than heroes; choosing cynicism over hope; and tough, simplistic talk over responsible action. Conflict is the center of all drama, action the catharsis of conflict, and swift destruction or gratuitous violence is inherently more self-evident than the long, ambiguous process of building something of value much less the myriad complex respective awakenings to our own personal relationship to that value.
Here's to finding worthy heroes—and heroines—again.
11
What a lovely lady and a wonderful actress. Her and Christopher Reeve had such a great chemistry in Superman. She was a brilliant Lois and just captured my heart. RIP Ms. Kidder.
32
Being in awe of superman and louis lane while growing up...thinking it was so real. I hope her beautiful spirit is circling our beautiful globe with superman.
2
For those of us that grew up with Superman, watching the fimiliar characters appear in the movie, it was her portrayal of Lois Lane that I loved most. I hated the way the gossip media reported on her breakdown and illness. I was always routing for her as she struggled with mental illness. We were very fortunate to have her and the roles she played as a most talented actress.
31
RIP, too young. LATimes & other outlets ripped her horribly for her manic episode but her spirit rose above it. Looking back maybe she helped bring awareness to the stigma of anything 'mental'.
She was a blast and brought humanity to her roles, as opposed to celebrity. Condolences to her family.
16
While flying
Superman: Don’t worry. I got you.
Lois: Yeah, but who got you?!
Classic
17
'Ms. Kidder also became known for a breakdown she had in 1996, when she was given a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. She talked openly about her condition thereafter, bristling at the words “mental illness.”
“They are a stigma and recall times when it was thought those with a disorder were possessed by the devil,” she told The Edmonton Journal in 2008. “I hope someone can come up with new words.”'
Being bipolar, or manic-depressive, the term I prefer to describe myself, is only a stigma if you let it. In the Middle Ages and earlier, being a leper truly carried a stigma and a warning bell. Likewise, the Black Death left its hideous marks on all it touched. If one were lucky enough to survive, then one was left scarred by its stigmata for the rest of one's days.
Don't want to be stigmatised in 2018 with medical labels? Then stay away from the quacks. Their drugs won't help you. Their therapy won't help you. But you will end up finding it difficult to get life insurance or a mortgage.
For medication, avoid expensive, labelling and largely useless medical prescriptions. Instead, for depression, agitation and anxiety take high daily doses of Vitamin B12 (1000 micrograms) and of folic acid (3x5mg per diem). Run as fast and as far as you can. Work out intensively lifting heavy iron or doing rigorous body work on a bar such as chins and muscle ups.
It may help you, and at least you won't be labelled.
6
Lovely, genuine, candid: she was as refreshing to watch onscreen as off. Her star will forever shine ... from the heavens.
9
RIP Margot Kidder
One of my all time favorite movie lines is from Superman I.
Superman catches Miss Lane as she is falling off a skyscraper roof.
Superman: "Easy miss. I've Got You!"
Lois: "You've Got Me?" "Who's Got You?"
The look on her face is priceless.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=394jYH82s2o
2:50
THe other great Superman/Classic New Yorker/Cab Driver Line (from Superman II
Metropolis Battle
1:40
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HiGZXhs9V9s
8
Thank you for sharing that flying scene. I have not watched Superman since it came out 40 years ago, and that scene took me back to the night I saw it with my family. I so vividly remember falling madly in love with Christopher Reeve and wanting nothing more than to be as cool as Margot Kidder. To a 10-year-old-girl, Superman was movie-making magic. Not a bad legacy for Ms. Kidder.
10
Elsewhere I read how Margot Kidder reflected on oddity of the fact that she would forever be remembered for her role as Lois Lane in "Superman", almost forty years ago, despite her long career. An understandable sentiment, natural for an artist who wants to grow and be remembered for many creative moments.
But if one has to be remembered for one role in particular, then what a sweet, wonderful thing to be remembered for. For all the technical wizardry of modern filmmaking, and the sometimes campy aspects of the cinema of the 70's, there's never been a more wonderful version of Superman than Christopher Reeve's, and never a more believable, real, human Lois Lane than Margot Kidder's. It was a lovely dream, and I don't think there could be a better way to be immortalized in film.
Thank you for being part of that dream, Margot Kidder. Your sensitive, sweet portrayal is a precious gift that we'll never forget.
13
Kidder and Reeve.
Those two had the character driven chemistry.
The Man of Steel had met his match.
Heart and soul.
11
Ms Kidder gave Lois Lane a zip and pizzazz Lois had seriously lacked till then.
Paired with Christopher Reeve, and special effects that at the time were dazzling, they gave new life to an old comic.
She was a terrific actress and a brave woman. I'm sorry she's gone.
Deepest condolences to her family and friends.
13
I had the pleasure of meeting Margot Kidder at Oceti Sakowin at Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, North Dakota the day after the 2016 Presidential election. She had been to camp several times before and on the day we met, as on her earlier visits, her car was packed to the roof with books.
Through her generosity, the camps at Standing Rock had libraries for readers of all ages and abilities. Her kindness and generosity were memorable as were her great laugh and warm hugs. I am happy to have met her and will cherish the photo of her with the carload of books. A great woman is gone, but not forgotten.
54
Lovely!
A good actress, but for me she will always be the best Lois Lane. She was spunky, a Lois Lane who inspired women from that time to take chances, to be a feminist. To take charge, be smart, follow your heart and to live life fully. Her Lois Lane was a role model.
Rest in peace Ms. Kidder and thanks for helping to propel me to a job in communications, many, many years ago.
39
Her little hometown of Livingston will mss her civic activism and occasional quirks....the year-round Christmas tree always gave me a smile when I passed her home
22
Brave lady who put a spotlight on uncomfortable, personal issues.
Appreciated the post from a fellow Montanan (?) who happened to speak with her 2 years ago ... where she sounded settled, engaged and happy.
(Still, gone too soon. Mental health struggles are a battle royale, and often, little by little, they eat away at one, age and damage you in ways seen and unseen.)
18
I will miss her---Margot Kidder was so genuine and down to earth.
8
The Best Superman movie and the best Lois Lane. RIP. She actually was believable as a reporter and I loved the scene where Superman says he can't see through lead and when Margot moved he said, "Pink" and she later responded, "Do you like pink?" Best line in the movie.
6
Actually, a lot of critics liked it too.
6
I would of thought this is one full obituary you'd have ready to go at a moment's notice.
4
Would you of? Can you diagram that sentence?
2
I worked at a printing company in Livingston in 2004. Ms. Kidder placed an order, and then called to make a correction. It's a highlight of my life that I got to hear Lois Lane tell me to "stop the presses!" Her exact words.
54
Cool !!!
12
cannot believe "Sisters" mention left ou
6
She's excellent in two other 70's horror films besides Amityville Horror: "Black Christmas"... hilarious as a wise-cracking sorority girl...totally steals the film. And "Sisters" directed by Brian DePalma...where she plays a dual role (kinda)...in a pretty remarkable performance. One of the original Scream Queens.
13
Yes! "Sisters" was so wonderfully creepy and Kidder was amazing.
7
I know the NYT can't mention all of her roles, but she was outstanding in "Black Christmas," which was a truly groundbreaking horror film.
10
If only Superman could go back in time again like he did to save Lois the last time she died 40 years ago...
https://youtu.be/TjgsnWtBQm0
15
Her presentation of the "Vagina Monologues " in Victoria BC was great even though she kept referring to me as "Old Bob" throughout.
4
A few weeks ago, you announced a series of "missed obituaries" for those whose lives had not been memorialized in the Times. Here's why: your obituary column is filled with memorials to every possible minor entertainment figure. Their lives are fussed over in excruciating detail while others, no matter how important their contributions, are ignored as not sexy enough.
6
I disagree in this case, Cloudy. Margot Kidder was not a major superstar, but it's fair to say she was a kind of generational touchstone. Anyone who enjoyed movies in the 1980s, especially younger people, had an incomplete childhood if they never saw a film with Ms. Kidder. She brought verve and spark to otherwise stock roles that would have been flat as cardboard just a few years before.
Thanks to her Lois Lane, a lot of adolescents redefined the what an ideal mate could be, factoring in courage, intelligence and personality. A nation of kids looked as forward to watching a scene with Lois as they did one with Superman.
Her later struggles and work on behalf of mental health and civic causes seem to have been appreciated by a lot of people too, especially since she did so much of it out of limelight.
If my remarks strike you as hagiography, I plead guilty. I never knew her, but Ms. Kidder played a role in some of my fondest first memories. I will miss having her around.
8
Margot Kidder was not a "minor entertainment figure." She was a co-star of one of the highest-grossing and popular movies of the era, and if you read the obit and the comments, you'd see that she also led a difficult and admirable life that touched many people.
Sure, the Times could do more coverage of people less famous … and I'd add they could do it before they die. But they can do both.
4
What does that have to do with an obituary for Margot Kidder? Are you implying she was "minor" and should not be memoralized?
4
For the best of early Margo see the National Film Board of Canada's micro-budgeted feature, The Best Damned Fiddler from Calaboogie to Kaladar: https://www.nfb.ca/film/best_damn_fiddler_from_calabogie_to_kaladar/
9
Margot was in a Paul Mazursky movie called, "Willie & Phil," in 1980, which was kind of a look back to the 70s. Mazursky had a keen eye and ear for quirky cultural phenomena (Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice was one of his best). And his casting was dead on. Margot played the love interest of two friends, and for me she stole the show. A minor movie, but she had a way of delivering the director's concept that made it memorable.
9
" You and I... could belong to each other. If you need a friend... I'm the one to fly to. If you need to be loved... here I am. Read my mind." Lois Lane to Superman
19
Love that tune!
4
In the movies, Ms. Kidder will always be remembered as the best Lois Lane EVER. In real life, her "highly publicized mental breakdown" and eventual return to film and stage will forever be a reminder to me of her great inner strength and ability to pick herself up, brush off the dirt and dust and continue perfecting her craft. I will always admire her spunk and her decision to not allow a personal and private issue to define nor stereotype who she was. She had guts and nerves of steel like Superman.
I will miss her dearly.
29
Man am I shocked and saddened by her passing. She really was one of the best actresses who could do screwball comedy that I've ever seen. Her ability to do it was what made Superman The Movie and Superman II the best Superhero movies that I've ever seen, Avengers Infinity War included. RIP Miss Lane, you'll forever be remembered.
12
One of the many gems that made the quirky 1971-72 NBC "Nichols," aka "James Garner as Nichols" such an amazing show. Ahead of its time and under-appreciated at the time. Worth another look (its one season is available on DVD) -- or a first look, if you've never seen it.
4
Margot Kidder dealt her personal issues maturely and became a strong public voice for others. Sorry to hear she has passed away.
On a side note, Pierre Trudeau was Prime Minister of Canada for much longer than the period 1980-84.
7
Sad to hear the news that Margot Kidder has passed away. I know she was a busy actress but her portrayal as Lois Lane is from a fabulous era of influential fun movies that strikes a real chord with me. Maybe it’s my age as I’m also in my sixth decade. But 69 is no real age by today’s standards. I’m sure they’ll be as many ‘Superman’ fans out there who’ll be feeling the very same as me today.
8
There have been many, many Lois Lane in film and TV but for me Margot Kidder was THE Lois Lane. I saw Superman II twice in one weekend mainly due to her (although probably also Christopher Reeve) and can still quote some of her lines. May she rest in peace.
10
I miss the days when it wasn’t controversial to be all about “Truth, Justice, and the American Way.” RIP.
18
All of the Lois Lane actresses I've watched (Neil, Coates and Kidder) added their own unique personas to the character. Ms. Kidder contemporized Lois Lane and made her a bit more complex. She was a great update to terrific character.
5
She will be missed.
6
I had a crush on her when I saw her for the first time in the Superman movie. She was sexy, funny, smart, beautiful and down to earth, all in one. My condolences to her family and loved ones.
10
She was a great actress. Rest In Peace Margot Kidder.
3
Margot Kidder and Christopher Reeve had great chemistry together on film. The two of them were the best portrayals of Lois Lane and Superman on film. The others pale in comparison.
12
Lois Lane has been a character in my life since I was little. Margot Kidder made that character more realistic and more real.
3
RIP Margot Kidder great activist, great actress, and great human. Thank you for all you did. Prayers to hwr family and friends.
Live it up in the spirit world.
10
There are some Dvd versions of "Nichols" available, which she starred in with the late James Garner. A really pleasant and funny Western, very different from Maverick. I can understand why Donner was interested in casting her. Rest in peace.
5
Margot Kidder did a great job as reporter, Lois Lane, in the film, Superman. I was surprised to learn, two years ago, that she also did excellent work as an actual reporter. A resident of Montana, Kidder wrote a deeply researched article, "How Hillary Clinton Bought the Loyalty of 33 State Democratic Parties," about campaign finance in the Clinton campaign in Montana and 32 other states.
https://www.counterpunch.org/2016/04/01/how-hillary-clinton-bought-the-l...
When I read it I wondered, "is this the very same Margot Kidder, the Margot Kidder of Lois Lane fame?" Indeed it was.
It was a courageous article, and she was apparently a courageous woman. I wish more people had read it, and more had brought her remarkable research to light.
46
She was mocked for outspokenness but she was correct in opposing the Iraq invasion--Hillary was of course wrong in supporting it.
9
Very sad. I enjoyed Superman very much and imagined myself swooping in to save Lois Lane every time I watched it as a young boy.
Especially hard death because it reminds me of my own self growing older and how much I've changed since the first time I watched the movie.
These characters and the actors and actresses were filled with so much vitality now Reeve and Kidder are gone.... RIP Margie you mean a lot to me.
96
Margot Kidder did the best performance by far of the fictional reporter Lois Lane, who doesn't miss a thing.
Skeptical ("You've got me? Who's got you?"), and astute, it didn't take Lane long to get to the bottom of Clark Kent's secret identity. Inspiring to look back at this 70's role model, in today's era of maligned journalists.
14
Condolences to the family. She was a good actress but I must confess I am a retro guy and preferred Noel N. in the old original superman series on 1950s TV.
Ironically Noel died fairly recently in her 90s.
3
How is this ironic?
1
A better word would have been a coincidence, that is what I meant to say.
I meant it in the sense Margot was young and instead of living to 90 like Noel, she died young, the opposite of what Noel did.
celebrities sometimes appoint themselves poster children for this or that disease, which probably nets as a good thing, having glamorous sufferers stand for the rest of us. kidder's mental illness was a realer sort of allegiance. to see someone so beautiful brought so suddenly low, in such visceral distress, for me it was a revelation, the idea, that such a humble illness could reach so high. i hope recent years have been kinder to her.
13
The shame is if MK was starting out today in Hollywood she would not be give the time of day, most certainly not leading lady roles. Some of us were fortunate to have experienced her talent upon the big screen. An amazing actor and human being.
25
She was just so utterly genuine with a grace and humility not seen too often today. She is Lois Lane forever. No CGI, no half-baked storylines. Yeah, there was an element of camp but that was the whole idea.
32
RIP
12
Two years ago, about this time, when we were living in Montana, I got a call from a woman from the Bernie Sanders Montana headquarters asking me to be a delegate for him. I was unable, due to other obligations, but my caller gave me her name and number to contact her if things changed. I said, “Oh, Margot Kidder, like the actress?” And she said, “ I am Margot Kidder, the actress, or I once was. I’m now Margot Kidder, the grandmother who lives in Livingston, Montana.” And we had a lovely conversation about the joys of growing older and children and her grandchildren and my hope for some, if it worked out, someday. Delightful kismet of a moment. Sorry to hear of her passing, too young in my book. But after earlier difficulties, about which she alluded, am glad to say She was happy, involved in her community, and enjoying her family and the world.
235
Pure gold, Wende !
19
Aw, that is a happy thing to hear! Thank you for sharing your story, Wendy. (It should be NYT Pick, moderators!)
7
Lois and Superman are now together!
17
Always loved this lady. RIP
19
I like to think that Chris Reeve met her and flew her lovingly into the clouds and sunset.
78
When people die, they are dead.
3
That may be true for you, GreaterMetropolitanArea, but for the rest of us, vibrant, intelligent, funny, caring and hardworking human beings live at least as long as we who witnessed them do. For those whose vibrancy, intelligence, humor and caring work is captured on film or inspires those qualities in others—who will in turn no doubt themselves go on to inspire those qualities—in that way, at least, they will live on for as close to forever as the human race manages to exist.
And in the future, when someone tells you they like to think some poetically sweet and harmless thing, consider that people will come to their own conclusions about what is it about contradicting them—in a obituary, no less—that you like.
3
Are you sure? Have you been present when someone passed over? Because I must admit after working in and around hospitals and emergency air transportation for 25 years I have in fact witnessed many people pass over. I have never counted but vividly remember one in particular. Being at the head of the bed when an older gentleman with severe pulmonary edema took his last labored breath and I felt something go straight up from his body. I told the nurse he is gone and she said we need to start CPR I replied you can start it but I just felt him leave the building. Alarms going off and a made rush to resuscitate him proved fruitless. That was the most dramatic of my experiences but I had felt it numerous times.
So, I remain a sceptic but I know what I felt so I would not say for sure what might become of us after we leave this world. I know our spirit must leave our body by the rush of energy I felt but I have no idea where we end up and neither do you.
RIP Margot Kidder. The world is a poorer place without you.
11
I remember seeing Superman on a huge screen when it came out -- I was a teenager. Margot Kidder as Lois Lane was nervy, vivid and truly lovely. RIP.
18
I always loved Margot Kidder. She brought something of her own to each role she played. She is so much more than Lois Lane, but I can understand why she is almost exclusively remembered for the role. Kidder was able to play a woman who repeatedly had to be saved by Superman, yet never seemed like a damsel in distress. She brought strength to that role and no one would question that Superman would fall in love her.
I hate all the mockery of her manic episode, and I applaud her perseverance through the years. In my eyes, Ms. Kidder shows, as many others have, that Bipolar Disorder is not something that precludes a person from making the world a better place.
129
"Kidder was able to play a woman who repeatedly had to be saved by Superman, yet never seemed like a damsel in distress."
Nailed it.
3
Sad how her life took a turn for the worst. Doesn't say how she passed. My Uncle Ben Stanley worked on the sets at Pinewood Studios in England. His sister was my mom and mom lived there during the entire WWII in London which I visited in 1980. They were born in Dublin, Ireland with their other sisters and brothers. When actress Margot Kidder finished filming the "Superman" movie. Not sure if the first or sequel or all movies Marot Kidder starred in in "Superman". She gave my uncle a bottle of brandy he told me it was for working on the set in celebration of completing the movie. Later it was a tragedy that actor Christopher Reeve as "Superman" character later fell from a horse and became quadriplegic and died in 2004.
5
Her characters in Superman and Indiana Jones intimated that they had a life beyond the confines of this particular filmic world, that they could move on to other things without the leading man, and her character would have her own wonderful adventures. It takes a lot of confidence to play it that way.
7
I believe you are confusing Karen Allen, who was in Raiders of the Lost Ark, and later Crystal Skull (and is still with us) with Margot Kidder.
Both great roles and performed well by these women.
4
Pretty sure you have Karen Allen confused with Margot Kidder for the Indiana Jones films.
3
We were just speaking about her "downfall" last night after we saw the woefully neglected film gem "QUACKSER FORTUNE HAS A COUSIN IN THE BRONX".
If you like her work, see that film.
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
9
Sorry about the use of pronouns instead of naming Ms. Kidder. That's what I get for posting a comment before coffee.
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
2
These films were part of my childhood, and had a sense of humor that the latest self-serious batch of superhero movies lack. Mr. Reeve will always be Superman to me, and Ms. Kidder Lois. Great pairing, with the snap of (I see now) a screwball comedy team. Ms. Kidder was the perfect intrepid reporter, with just a hint of huskiness in her voice to keep her real. First Carrie Fisher, and now her. It's been a sad year.
23
She once came to an event at the Robert Treat Hotel in Newark, driving her SUV. While in the event, the SUV was stolen. She took it in stride, and while concerned, did not make a scene.
She was, in addition to being a great actress, a very nice person.
106
Margot Kidder was an outstanding actress. I especially liked her in "Sisters". RIP Margo Kidder.
53
The first Superman movie, starring Kidder and Reeve, is how a superhero movie should be made. While it was campy, it had heart, genuine humor and believable action. You could identify with the characters and, yes, there was an actual plot. Today's directors of the Marvel series should take note. Too many of those movies break every rule of storytelling: bad dialogue, nonexistent plot, little character development, and action so dizzying and loud that it repels rather than excites. Kidder was a sexy and endearing Lois Lane. It's a sad day.
239
It's a sad day for me too, since once again a female celebrity is being remembered as "sexy," as if that were an anywhere near important characteristic for a human being to have.
20
Yes, actresses in a role can exude their sexuality. Did you have a problem with the use of endearing as a descriptor too?
Nothing wrong with being sexy and in Hollywood that is a major asset.
Ms. Kidder was more than a Playboy model. She was more than an actress, and she was more than even Lois Lane. She was an inspiration to many that mental health can be treated and overcome by perseverance and belief in one self.
Condolences to the family. She will be sorely missed.
155
While I absolutely admire Ms. Kidder for the light she shown on mental illness and her eventual triumph over it, it is a disservice to say "perseverance and belief in one self" is the key to treating mental illness.
Delightful voice - and a lively presence always. A charming, skeptical Lois Lane.
45
Margot Kidder, who preferred to be called Margie, was a strong advocate for social and environmental justice. She was a wonderful woman. She will be missed.
127
chris and now margot, we will not see their like again on the silver screen. what a fantastic couple they were.
58
A delightful actress, with such talent, that one forgot that she was acting.
She was beautiful and courageous. My heart is breaking for those she has left behind.
39
I met her in Livingston in 2006 and she was a modest and kind woman. Her smile was quick as was her appreciation of affection.
73
Multi dimensional actress who filled the screen. I remember her laugh from the Superman movies. I hope the family will be able to remember the joy she gave to others with her movies and be at peace with her passing.
34
She'll always be Lois Lane to me, but she was so much more. A fine actress and person, gone way before her time. She will, indeed, be missed, both for her past performances and those we'll never see.
40
I loved Margot Kidder in the Superman movies. Those movies, especially the first one, were the best Superman movies ever made in my opinion. I am so sorry to hear of her passing. She was a great Lois Lane!
38
I loved her look, her raspy voice, and that breath of fresh air she brought to every movie and TV show she appeared in.
She was a true beauty and talent who will grace the screen only in reruns. I will miss her dearly.
Deepest condolences to Ms. Kidder's family, friends and fans.
72
Margot Kidder was hands down the best Lois Lane, so natural and funny. She and Christopher Reeve had supreme chemistry together. Thank you for those sweet films and rest in peace, Ms. Kidder.
119
She was a perfect counterpoint for Indiana Jones. Have a pleasant journey into time, Margot.
12
The actress in the Harrison Ford Indiana Jones movies was Karen Allen.
14
I agree that Margot Kidder WOULD have been the perfect Indy counterpoint...but it was Ms. Kidder's doppelganger Karen Allen who starred in Raiders of the Lost Ark.
11
You are confusing her with Karen Allen. Understandable. They are similar in appearance and voice.
2
Talented and brave...she came of age at a time when mental health challenges were often hidden and/or untreated because of the career-ending stigma attached. We've made some (but still far too little) progress in this area, and have far to go.
56
I enjoyed the Superman films of the 1970s and throughly enjoyed Margot Kidder as Lois Lane...she was just perfect! I am deeply saddened by her loss.
Rest in peace Margot. You are not forgotten and will be sorely missed. And thank you for the smiles you brought us as Lois. You were wonderful!
50
I got to see Ms. Kidder at the Metropolis, Illinois Superman festival, they have each year. She was beautiful, after all those years! Worth standing in line for!
27
She had her problems & we hoped she found her way. She was a very appealing actress in her time. I hope she can find some peace.
14
“Don’t worry miss, I’ve got you.”
“If you’ve got me…then who’s got you?!” Classic.
123
Bipolar disorder was not in the public conversation back in 1996. Many people with bipolar were viewed as just difficult, flakey or temperamental. If Ms. Kidder had gotten effective treatment before her mental state reached that crisis point, she may have had a longer career and an easier life. I remember how her breakdown was reported at the time. She was pilloried. It’s shameful what the press did to her.
155
She was the best Lois Lane ever.
44
I agree with Margot Kidder. The new Superman films were missing the spark that the original Superman films had in spades.
Margot Kidder's role in Superman ushered in a new era of feminism on the big screen. Sadly, Amy Adams' Lois Lane had nothing to truly do except be the girlfriend. That passivity isn't just bad story telling, it doesn't reflect the fascinating real-life dynamic between men and women.
Thank you Margot Kidder for giving us the scoop in real life and on the big screen.
116
While Kidder will always be known as the most empowered Lois Lane of all, she was an acclaimed Actress in a number of great 70's films like Brian DePalma's thriller "Sisters" as well as the dark horror film "Black Christmas." She struggled with personal demons for years but had been making a career comeback, so this is sad news indeed...https://johnrieber.com/2018/05/14/rip-margot-kidder-a-great-actress-dies...
19
Oh my God, I am so stunned. I will always remember her scene in Superman with Christoper Reeve when he took her flying around the New York City skyline. I hope that they are now flying to all of the skylines in the world. Rip.
95
Sad news. She was terrific.
23
"You've got me. Who's got you?"
50
And she got us. RIP.
I was 13 years old when "Superman" was first released and saw it seven times, partly because I'd developed a tween crush on Ms. Kidder. My parents even fronted me allowance money to see the movie so many times because they knew that even at such a young age I saw Ms. Kidder for what she was: smart, wise, and real.
My colleagues and I are talking about this as I write. Shows the effect Ms. Kidder has had.
RIP, Ms. Kidder, and soar freely among the stars. I'll miss reading about your outstanding anti-war work. Hugs from me to you.
49
One of my favorite actors of all time. Margot Kidder was one-of-a-kind. I loved the sound of her voice and her presence. She had a very difficult struggle with bipolar disorder which side-lined her career. I've missed her ever since she left the public eye. But if there's a Heaven, I believe she's there.
31
I have often wondered, especially since the Harvey Weinstein scandal, how actors and actress manage to stay sane in such an insane world. Long before the days of Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney, entertainment promoters have exploited the youth, energy and naivety of attractive young people. When the victims try to escape, they are labelled as paranoid, delusional. Perhaps they are, but would they have become that way in a less predatory world? It has gotten so bad that we have elected the biggest blood-sucking predator in history to lead our country. Let us pray for the victims and ask God to "deliver us from evil."
18
Great soul took rest.her work and deeds are ever inspirable. god bless her soul.
11
Quirky and compelling, she filled the screen with good times. She will be missed.
201