My unexpected encounters with Christopher Reeve had a profound impact on my life.

Before I saw Christopher Reeve on stage, I thought he was just another Hollywood pretty boy. But as our paths crossed multiple times-at an audition, on the streets of New York, and later in a dream-my perception of him shifted. I saw a man who transcended his 'Superman' image, facing unimaginable challenges with grace and strength. Through these encounters, I learned that Reeve was not just a handsome face or a famous actor; he was a force of resilience, inspiration, kindness, and a force for good in the world. Join me as I recount my personal journey with this remarkable man who proved to be more than just a superhero.
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Jill
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[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

One of my brilliant viewers brought it to my attention that Christopher Reeve was paid 250K for the first Superman movie, not 50 K. I'm sorry for the error. Thank you.

[@polyglot12]

He was perfect in 'Somewhere In Time'. Terrific recounting - that is indeed a New York Moment. And quite a wild dream.

[@CharlieChilders-wm9gb]

This is one of my very favorite movies of all time. I also became a Jane Seymour fan at the same time. I seem to never tire of seeing this movie. I watch it again every 2 or 3 years and often it will bring tears. 🥲 Such a beautiful film!🤗

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I need to watch it again. It's been a long time.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thanks so much for being here.

[@christopherramon-reid2000]

He was fantastic in that movie.

[@s.hopkins4490]

Awwww, I want to cry whenever I see him. Such a kind man. I’ve loved him since Somewhere in Time. Can’t wait to see this documentary.

[@KohalaLover]

Me too! Somewhere in Time was beautiful, even the music. 🎶

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

He was such a beautiful soul. Give me so much faith in humanity. Thanks for watching.

[@clemdane]

In 1980 at age 11 I wrote Christopher Reeve a two page love letter! Luckily for me (and him!) I didn't know where to send it. The 11 year old in me is dying of jealousy now!

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Awwwww. I love that you wrote him a love letter. I think he would. have loved it.

[@zoelcaron7930]

Isn’t that the truth? We play with the cards that we have been dealt with. Yes, Christopher Reeve was an inspiration, but you are also Jill for following the path Your heart told You to follow.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much. It hasn't been easy but I'm glad I followed my heart too.

[@russellbrauer4799]

i saw him at the airport in l.a. just briefly. He was in a word...stunning. another great video joy. answered prayers. beautiful.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much.

[@rbus]

I have to imagine someone somewhere has some remarkable memories of acting class with best buds Christopher Reeves & Robin Williams as classmates.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I can only imagine how great those memories must be.

[@Richie8a8y]

Thank You for sharing Jill - I need this kind of strength again. Christopher Reeve was a force. I never met him but was thrown from a horse when I was 27. His name was Spook and he sure as shit lived up to it. A group of us were astride the horses we’d just met as we sauntered from the stable yard towards the pasture. It was early spring, early afternoon and our guide mentioned it was the first time this spring that the horses were out with riders. Just as we made it to the pasture the wind blew, and Spook reared, swung 180, and tore off at “breakneck” speed in the direction of the woods along the highway at the base of a mountain. I decided I wasn’t up for the trip and as I looked for an opportunity along the rocky - grassy - rocky ground I lit off the horse and did a tuck and roll. I don’t know how I wasn’t killed or worse. I’d been on a horse a few times as a child. This was terrifying! I had a few scrapes from the branches but otherwise there wasn’t a mark on me. My companions and the “guide(?)” saw me as I limped up alone from the road. They found it amusing. I went back to the house I’d rented us. The horse wasn’t found till the next day. Later that spring Christopher was paralyzed. I’ve thought about him often. A few years later I rented a U Haul with a jumping horse on it to move a friend from Boston to New York City. On the trip I’d pet the dashboard every once in a while and say, “Good Boyyy Spook, Good Boy.”

[@wasteland01]

Thank you for these videos. They are like jewels you see at the shops or museums.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much. That makes me happy.

[@erikh9991]

Wonderful story. Thank you for giving me some fun to watch.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

My pleasure.

[@KohalaLover]

Thank you, Jill. You are articulate and your perspective has depth. Really enjoy your stories and advice. Yes, Christopher Reeve left his mark upon the world for his grace and determination. I picture Robin Williams, Dana, and Christopher in the hereafter having laughs with good times.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I love that image. Glen Close attended the premiere of the new film about Chris and said she believed if Chris were still alive Robin would be too.

[@clemdane]

I loved him in Deathtrap!

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I did too but I need to rewatch that film.

[@pattyedwards8218]

He was such a beautiful soul. Thank you for sharing your story with us. ❤

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you for watching. He was a beautiful soul.

[@anncarter1663]

What a beautiful and inspiring story. Thank you.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you.

[@lesleyhumphrey6498]

I’m in tears. What a beautiful ‘relationship’ you had (have) with Christopher Reeve, regardless if you ever physically met. I believe in the power of prayer (and thought too!). I’m sure your heartfelt compassion joined with all the similar vibrational energies to bring him back from the brink of death so he could do such amazing work for others. Thank you for sharing your story. Sending you much love.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much. Yes, I am am sure there were thousands of people praying for him and it worked.

[@Annette825]

Love this video. Thank you for sharing.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you for watching.

[@SharonAgassiArt]

Thank you for this wonderful story. And I appreciate your wonderful spirit as well ❤

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much. I appreciate that.

[@GatewayGarden267]

Love your videos! I anxiously await for every Sunday.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much.

[@nonenoneonenonenone]

He was, after all...Superman. He lived up to the role. Identify your challenge and overcome it. Write a play about an actress who starts making internet videos from her apartment, and after accidentally revealing its location, starts receiving visitors, good and bad...

[@nonenoneonenonenone]

Challenge: how to look and act older to play elderly roles...do a monolog show, where you can show, not your chops, but your genius.

[@nonenoneonenonenone]

I never see anyone explore the burdens of celebrity, of being connected to so many people, and how to handle it. Not being able to handle it well, I suspect, is what leads to so much self-destructive behaviors or negative results; especially now when performers are not trained in how to be stars, or protected by studios. Maybe you could interview such people. Gore Vidal spoke on a Tom Snyder show about being connected with everyone. It's something actors have in common with spiritual leaders, teachers, many professionals.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Interesting concept. I think that's actually happened to people who do this sort of thing.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I've done a few. It takes a lot of time, money, and effort but I do have something in mind.

[@peaches1206]

Duane Allman said "You don't have fame, fame has you."

[@clemdane]

Wonderful message. Amazing serendipty...

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much.

[@bearjanman]

Jill - here is my synchronicitic event. Picture this, January, Toronto Ontario 1976. I was 18 years old in high school. On my way to see a play in the subway a handsome man with a chiseled face who I learned later was Christopher Reeve. He was in the same subway car - thought this man was an actor. He exited the King subway station in a rush. I later found out he was in the play I was going to see the play, A MATTER OF GRAVITY. I went early to see if I could meet or see Katharine Hepburn. There was no one around, it was quiet and serene. I stood outside the Royal Alexander Threate, large snowflakes falling down and Katharine Hepburn arrived in an orange limo - her chauffeur walked behind her. She had her head wrapped in scarves and she was short. I walked up to her and asked, "Are you Katharine Hepburn"? She said - "No you have your stars mixed up". Startled I said, yes you are. I asked for an autograph. She was walking with a cane and told me to send in my program. I did. She sent it back signed with a letter: "You see, Have Faith"! , on Katharine Houghton Hepburn's stationery, with a shaky signature. Having faith is something I usually struggle throughout my life - with so it was a great reminder of synchronicity. I didn't ask for autographs after that.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I love that story and she gave you the message you needed to hear. She is a tough bird. If you ever listen to Jane Fonda talking about KH on On Golden Pond you'll. understand. I'm glad you persisted and got your autograph. An orange lime? Interesting.

[@bearjanman]

@@jilldaltonnyc7545 LOL. Thank you! Yes, Hepburn arrived in an orange limo and her chauffeur was a black man who walked slowly behind her. There was NO ONE AROUND and large snow lakes falling. Yes, Hepburn's message is something I have to remember - HAVE FAITH. Love your personality and stories keep them coming.

[@risk5riskmks93]

Had such a crush on Christopher Reeve when I saw Superman as a kid. And though I rarely get star struck, meeting his costar Margot Kidder was an immense thrill. Thank you SO much for sharing your stories with us!

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much for being here.

[@324cmac]

One thing that really impressed me about how Christopher Reeve handled his accident was when people around him called for the euthanizing of the horse that threw him he told them not to do it.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I'm glad to hear that. Thanks for sharing that info here.

[@TheMrspopRocks]

I love your stories. He Really was a Stunning Man. I love when people find a way to turn bad into good. ♥

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Me too. He was a Super Man.

[@hartspot009]

Another wonderful life-share, and a validation of the universe aligning to teach and inspire. Thank you for letting us peek into your world Jill 🙏🙏

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you for being here. I really appreciate your kind words.

[@russell5698]

Jill, you're a force of good yourself. Your positive outlook uplifts me every time I watch one of your videos. Thank you.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much. I'm glad.

[@paulvoorhies8821]

He was terrific in Deathtrap.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I think he was. underrated because he was so handsome.

[@clemdane]

Ooh I love Christine Lahti! I didn't know she did mime

[@SlimKeith11]

I adore her too!! She was in SO many small good movies in the 80s and 90s.

[@andrealandsburg]

Well...such a story..he was also Canadian and often either spoken about, interviewed and or at least followed by the CBC. He was beautiful as you say, but I remember being struck by his humbleness, sincerity and kindness whenever he spoke. Thank you so much for sharing this...and I chose to believe he heard your prayers and came to thank you. I like this a lot!

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

She did mime back in the day before moving to NYC.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you. I chose that, too. I believe that he heard my prayers along with thousands of others, and it gave him strength and courage to move forward.

[@clemdane]

@@jilldaltonnyc7545 Just like David Bowie!

[@starlightbutterfly180]

I love your stories so much!

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much.

[@sherrirabinowitz4618]

Beautiful story. I always adored him, right after Superman, he did the beautiful movie Somewhere in Time, After Superman 3 he did Remains of the Day, followed by Noises Off. He also worked on Broadway right after the first Superman. I never met him but I was a fan. I was so devastated when the accident happened. I think he was one the bravest people in the world.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I think so too. His bravery made him a true hero.

[@sherrirabinowitz4618]

@@jilldaltonnyc7545 Yes, I agree.

[@kallen868]

He was also great in Deathtrap.

[@sherrirabinowitz4618]

@@kallen868 Oh yes, he and Michael Caine were brilliant. I bought the play and saw it locally, (not the same with out those two but I did enjoy it very much.) When I saw the movie, I was really surprised with each twist, that is what it is all about.

[@volvol1]

Nice story. Thanks for posting.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thanks for watching.

[@fanwatisha]

Thanks so much! For so many reasons. Yes, we are connected (like those plants they’re discovering are connected with square miles of roots, or trees “talking” to each other). And yes, If the game’s worth playing, you play the hand you’re dealt. I’ve had disabling, progressive neurological disease for 25 years. Still working to move forward, and to make a happy life. This story moves me to tears. Thanks for putting it out there.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you for being the brave soul you are and to continue on. I'm so glad you're here.

[@SingLikeYouSpeak]

Oh, Jill what a wonderful story! So touching. Thank you, my friend.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

You are so welcome!

[@melissaeden1219]

Lovely video. Lovely thoughts. Thank you.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you for being here.

[@gdetorre9059]

I had been working at a trauma center in NJ when Christopher had been injured from the fall. After that, our center had an investigational drug study for spinal cord injury. There have been many studies to evaluate growth of neuronal cells. Probably the biggest change was to provide improvements to supportive care during and after recovery. I currently have a friend who works in the scientific field and there is hope for neuronal regeneration. In 1995, we were all praying for Chris. ❤

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Won't that be an amazing gift when that drug is put into use. Thanks for the work you do.

[@cyd369]

Another great story! Christopher Reeves will alway be the only Superman in my opinion.

[@bethelle9099]

Chris was to that role what Sean Connery was to James Bond. The verbal subtle humor with the perfect facial expressions to match. Both so dashing, clever and seductive in their roles! Most appealing!!!!

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much. He was iconic in that part.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Absolutely.

[@MDali-el4zm]

Thank you, Jill! I too always thought of Christopher Reeve as that tall, handsome actor who played Superman but didn't think he had much mojo outside of that narrow franchise. After his accident, and over time I saw what an incredibly intelligent, strong and courageous man he was! *Btw, I really enjoy watching your videos.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I know. Turns out he really was Superman. Thanks for watching.

[@initiate22000]

Such a beautiful story! Thanks for uplifting and entertaining me at the same time. I almost fell for your cat again when he yelled, thinking it was mine! But then I remembered the last time. 😄

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you. Too funny re: my cat. I had a couple of requests to see her, so she's makes an appearance in my next video.

[@Meme4473]

I am a 72 yr old former NY’er. Years ago I think he was a bartender on the UES. I can still see him like it was yesterday.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

He might have have been. Lots of actors worked as bartenders including Bruce Willis.

[@johnadams9247]

I have loved every one of the several episodes I have watched.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much.

[@seansmith9129]

I read his memoir 'Still Me' many years ago. He was very much a committed thespian, not unlike yourself! What a brave courageous man.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I read his memoir too. He was a deep soul for sure.

[@MrGpschmidt]

That was some dream. He will always be the ONLY Superman. I saw it opening day w/my dad (I was 11) and when he first becomes Superman from Clark Kent as he runs toward the screen in that close up which reveals the S under his shirt the audience went completely bananas. Literally standing on their feet stomping and cheering - you couldn't even hear the dialogue and when he saved Lois & the copter it erupted - I mean the ENTIRE theatre was yelling! I will never forget it - the ultimate cinematic experience I ever had. I hope you get to see the new doc - I saw it last weekend - it's wonderful.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I love this so much. What a great story. Do I need to bring several handkerchiefs to see the Super/Man doc?

[@timlangford8678]

Great story, strung together with so many pearls of serendipity.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

So glad you liked it.

[@Ethergirl]

Another wonderful story Jill. I have a few of these "synchronicity moments" too; (meeting or running into famous people, sometimes in a series of events). When they have happened to me, in the moment I usually just feel like "Oh of course this is happening right now." It's only in retrospect you go , "Wait, what, did I just see so and so again?" It's probably more possible in NYC than a lot of other places, as EVERYTHING happens in New York. In the case of Christopher Reeve, I think it's very possible that the tragedy he experienced was able to be transmuted to a benefit for the world through his strength and courage and tenacity.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I believe that to. He did so much good during his short life.

[@monalisa5220]

You are a great story teller and have great stories to tell. Your positivity makes me happy.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you. I honed my positivity over the years and I'm so glad I did.

[@sandro1a2b]

During the 1980s, Reeve was a steady customer of my father's upper west side barbershop. My father, an italian immigrant, always had nice things to say about him. Friendly and a good conversationalist while in the chair, and no airs.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

So wonderful to hear that. Your dad gave him great haircuts too.

[@bdso9593]

Oh, Deathtrap is a hilarious film. He, Michael Caine and Dyan Cannon are superb. I think an actor would especially enjoy the story and how it plays out.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I saw Deathtrap so long ago. I need to rewatch it.

[@brewstergallery]

I too am a believer in synchronicity as well. A moving story. Thanks.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Synchronicity is not scientifically proven but the psychiatrist Carl Jung developed the concept. in the early 1900s. He believed synchronicity was evidence of a unifying consciousness in the universe. I prefer Jung.

[@josephmacias2726]

If he wasn’t tall you would have never noticed him Very deep Very touching

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you. You may be right about the height. I read at some point that tall people make more money. I have no idea if that's true and how do they even get those numbers.

[@wendyhoag9637]

Another fabulous video, Jill. Thank you! What an amazing man. Superman is still an incredible movie...watched it again a few weeks ago. (I remember his last name being Reeves)

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I need to watch the movie again. I think lots of people think his name is Reeves but it Reeve.

[@paustinheaton]

What a touching episode. Very inspiring. Thank you. 💖

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much.

[@michaelweiser6887]

God bless you, too, Jill.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you and God bless you too.

[@juliacarothershughes]

✨️Magnificent ✨️🤗

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you.

[@weniki5785]

Thank you for your story! Loved him as a child.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thanks for watching.

[@finasullivan2311]

Brilliant❤❤❤❤

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you for watching.

[@RocketKirchner]

Great story Jill ! God bless you . Rocket

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much.

[@fairlanegt1]

Good one. Thanks again!

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you for watching.

[@ys_scl]

Qué buena narradora, debe ser una estupenda conversadora también. Lástima que Chile está muy lejos de USA. Gracias por el video. Lindo Reeves, por dentro y por fuera.❤

[@deeannadunchan1812]

obviously you have a soul connection with chris…. somewhere in time is one of my favorite movies of all time

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I'm not sure I've seen that movie. I need to watch it. Thanks.

[@rioguzmanc]

Great story Jill. Blessings!

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much for being here.

[@JWB373]

A terrific episode-thanks!

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thanks so much for watching.

[@ferleiva7080]

Great story! And that meowing executive producer...

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

lol. Yes, she very demanding. I guess lots of producers are like that. Thanks for watching.

[@ferleiva7080]

@@jilldaltonnyc7545 ❤

[@marcythemermaid]

you are such an engaging storyteller

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much.

[@danosso5263]

Another great tell. 👍

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much.

[@tommykovac1360]

If you decide to come on my podcast i'll tell you a funny Reeve story that was told by a guest to me recently!

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I will definitely do your podcast. Things have been super busy. Lots of auditions and personal things going on right now. Thanks for being here.

[@bjkjoseph]

You are a really good storyteller, I enjoy your videos

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much!

[@TombCat]

Oh Jill. You're good. Stop being so lovely. Sidebar......have you ever played a therapist? Not because I view you as one - but I do see you PORTRAYING one!! A complex, comic performance. Let's manifest it, shall we?

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I'd love to play a therapist. Thank you.

[@rachelkay8354]

I loved this. He was an inspiration to me as well and I never met him either. Truly a super man ❤️

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

He was a true inspiration to so many people.

[@violimo]

My Christopher Reeve encounter involved being in a room alone with him. It was 1987, and I was a guest at the Williamstown Theater Festival. I was allowed to sit in at rehearsals I went into the empty rehearsal room for Aphra Behn's play. The Rover. I sat down and out came Christopher doing his monologue. He fixed on me and maintained eye contact throughout the speech. I'm afraid I broke eye contact first.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

That sounds pretty intense. But a great encounter for sure.

[@KathyGoertz]

So I immediately googled Mimi Rodgers and she also is five foot nine. That is a beautiful story and I always prayed he would some day walk. I thought he was too tall to be riding that horse and jumping. Thanks for sharing a beautiful story. Did I miss the second part to your husband coming to NY to get you?

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

So far I've only done the one video about Henry coming to NY to get me. It's called NYC or Marriage. I'll be doing more on Henry. Stay tuned.

[@dougvandegrift2724]

Back in 1992 I did a project with Margo Kidder. Margo Kidder! Superman's girlfriend was all I could think about. Is was a small independent project with a very small crew. She was very funny and pleasant and I had no problem being chatty with her during breaks. Before long all we seemed to talk about about was her working with Christopher Reeve. She had great stories and spoke many wonderful things about him. She did, however, recall the two of them harnessed to each other for hours at a time on a single wire high above the floor with their faces nearly touching and having arguments about anything and everything!

[@zazubombay]

Thanks for this.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you for watching.

[@shirleypritchard1131]

I love you. That's it. I just love you.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I love you too.

[@bethelle9099]

Your stories Jill, make me think of the saying, '6 degree's of separation ', That would probably encompass every actor for you. My 1 degree of separation to Chris is that he went horseback riding wih a client of mine, back in the day. She said that he was a lovely man. As an actor what he means to me, well, before Superman fame, he was in a CBS soap opera. The soap was fair but when Chris joined the cast, it sizzled!!!! He was terrific!!!! Whenever I think of Chris, I always say the same thing to myself, "He'll always be 'Ben Harper' to me!!!"

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I'm sorry I missed him on the soap. I'm sure he was amazing.

[@bethelle9099]

He was great! That is what appears to be great about being an actor on a soap. The story lines quite often are over the top, so they can really ham it up if they want. Then that makes me think of the he movie, Tootsie. Was Hoffman great in that or what?!!!!!!!

[@Basa-xe4xc]

Please do a video on your celebrity dreams!😊

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Haha. I might. That would be funny.

[@cgab12]

I heard that Cristopher Reeve was even better looking in person.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I think so. Hard to believe but true.

[@BMarPiano]

Love this story!

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much.

[@paradisecaregiving7126]

Thank you Jill. There is a small error regarding C.R.'s salary on Superman: The Movie, though. It was $250,000 not $50,000. I have many memories of Christopher Reeve and Superman as I was chosen to be his stunt double in Superman III and IV. And I can tell you, the man and the film changed my life's trajectory...forever. My connection with both began in 1978 when the film was released. I was endeavouring to make it as an actor in Hollywood and Las Vegas, at the time. I landed small roles and extra work on shows like Buck Rogers, Love Boat, Dallas, Knight Rider, Hill Street Blues, Vegas, etc. as well as films I Wanna Hold Your Hand, Sargent Pepper's and Tron, later. I was also performing in theatre, locally, in musicals often taking leading roles. Many people would tell me how much I looked like Chris in Superman and I could see it, too. Particularly on that fateful evening in '78 at a Drive-In theatre in Las Vegas, Nevada. I was absolutely gob-smacked! The likeness was uncanny. In some scenes, I felt I was looking in a mirror. That night, i returned to my apartment, went to bed... and this was the beginning the first of at least a dozen, fully Technicolor, 3-D, full-on emotional and sensory dreams with me as Superman in costume without wires or special effects. REALLY FLYING!!! I'll never forget them. Fast forward to 1981, still having the occasional Superman dream, living in Hollywood and I'm "hired" to be one of the gentleman on The Dating Game (they paid actors to go on the show, $250 AFTRA TV rates). I'd done it once before but this time I was chosen and the date was to London... where all the Superman movies were produced and filmed and Superman III was currently in pre-production!!! A remarkable coincidence, one might say. While on "the date", December 1981, (6 days, 5 nights in London) I was fully prepared to make an appearance at Pinewood Studios, Buckinghamshire during my dream-like time there. I phoned ahead and made enquiries regarding stunt work and doubling for Christopher Reeve as I had a good likeness of the star. I was put through to the associate producer, Robert Simmonds, but had a rude awakening when he assured me it was a complete waste of time to meet telling me the production had a full slate, two Superman films were successfully completed and besides, i wasn't a member of British Actors' Equity and quickly hung up the phone. What a cheek!!! They hadn't even seen me! I immediately phone British Rail and make enquiries regarding the route and station near Pinewood Studios and the next day i set out to show them on the Superman 3 production that I'm legit and should be, at least seen by someone there on the team. So off I trot, photo and c.v. in briefcase, ready for an interview, an interview that no one wants to give. Undaunted, i carry on. I must have gotten the details from British Rail wrong on the previous days call because i ended up miles from the studio and with no other choice but to walk the 6 miles the station man told me it was, i continued. About a half a mile from Pinewood, in the snow, an old Fiat that had seen better days stopped, the window was wound down and a middle aged woman called out, "I can see you're going to the studio. Please, get out of the cold, I'll take you where you need to go". Turned out she was a nun at a nearby convent on the Pinewood Road. I wasn't hitching, i knew i was getting close but now, here, was an angel summoned to complete my journey! I looked up to the sky and said a silent "thank You". The man at the studio gate seemed to know her somehow and waved us right through. She dropped me off at the exact spot i required without instructions from anyone at Pinewood. How did she know these things? I certainly didn't. I'd never been outside the US in my life except a weekend trip to the California/Mexico border in my youth. As i entered the production office, and before i could introduce myself and the reason I was there, the secretary Trudy Balen said, "You must be Mark Stewart and you've come to see Robert. I must say, you do have a remarkable likeness to Christopher"! I stood there, mouth agape, looking completely dumbfounded. She smiled and said that she had put me through to Bob the day before and that i had explained fully my reason for calling. She simply put two and two together and she seemed impressed. Smart lady! I'm sure she went on to do well in her working life. Bless her. She also said that Bob was at lunch but if i could return in about an hour he'd be happy to see me. "Happy', I thought to myself, "I somehow doubt it. He seemed annoyed to be having to speak to me the previous day. Why would he be happy today? I'd ignored his advice and arrived unannounced". I smiled, thanked her profusely and said I'd be back in an hour. Meanwhile, i wandered the backlot of Pinewood where many classic British films had been made and where the James Bond set famously stood. I was walking on air! This seemed like a fairytale...where would it lead, i wondered? Well Bob was, indeed, happy to see me, an hour later. He was very polite, offering me tea in typical British fashion but this time, in a more cordial and warm tone, said that there was virtually no chance that I'd be hired to double for Chris with so many disadvantages work permit, union, previous films etc. I told him of my 6 mile trek on foot to see him. He was surprised but could see that I was determined to be, at least, seen. So he saw me, took my details presented (out of courtesy), promising nothing and gave me details of the quickest way back to London. Some weeks later, back in Hollywood, I receive a message on my 24/7 Actors Answering Service. From Vincent Winter, production manager (and former child actor) that they would like me to test for the role of stunt double because the plot involves a split in personality...Good Clark Kent and Dark Superman and they're looking for a double that can be filmed with, closer than a standard double because both Kent and Dark Superman have a big fight at close contact. To make a very long story short. The production flies me back to London for a screen test, stunt test with Richard Lester (director), Paul Weston (stunt coordinator), Bob Harmon (wire effects) and other principals behind the camera. And I win! What began as 3 weeks work on a single fight scene finished with 6 months work including the big location shoot in Calgary that doubled for Metropolis and Smallville. How Chris and Superman profoundly changed my life, though, was meeting my future wife on the set. This gave me the opportunity to have a career in film, TV, West End Theatre, commercials, recording and more. It's also led me on my spiritual journey, most importantly. I'm now an initiate Hindu Monk living in India. But that's another story. With Love and Grace, 🌈 Swami Markandeya Bharathi Shanti Shanti Shanthi HariH Om Tat Sat 🕉️🙏

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I'm speechless. What an amazingly profound experience. It was like you were being guided the entire time with a couple of angels to help you along the way. But you also had the chops, experience, passion to do the job and that's what it takes. Wow. I love that you met your wife on set and you're now a monk living in India. What a journey. Thank you so much for telling me your story. I found it deeply moving. When people ask me what it takes to be an actor I'm going to tell them your story because that's what it takes. Blessing to you and thanks so much for being here and sharing this amazing experience.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Also thinks for the correction on what Chris was paid. I googled it and yes it was $250,000. Not 50K. I read that number in a story online but they either left off the 2. or I misread it. I did read that he was upset by how little he was paid for the first film. I wish I could go back into the video and correct it but I can't so I'm going to try something else and see if that works. Thanks again.

[@paradisecaregiving7126]

​@@jilldaltonnyc7545 Dear Jill🙏 It's been an interesting walk down memory lane and your lovely tribute to Chris was the spark that ignited it. I've watched most of your videos, now, and have found your recollections on the business wise, thoughtful and, at times, hysterically funny. As most comments acknowledge, you are a wonderful story teller and you have an experiential handle on so many aspects of the business giving people who are not involved, a peek behind the curtain into the difficulties and the "rollercoaster ride" that is entertainment. Regarding Christopher, he was instrumental in my staying on the Superman III production for 6 months including post production and, five years later after becoming a qualified stuntman in the UK, ensuring my presence on Superman IV for another 6 months. I did see Chris once, after Superman, in the West End when I was performing in Little Shop of Horrors with Ellen Green at the Comedy Theatre and he was in The Aspern Papers around the corner. He did not look up, seemingly lost in thought, and I judged it best not to disturb him. By the way, your sister was absolutely correct regarding Chris and horse riding/jumping. When I'd heard about his accident and its cause in '95 I said immediately that he had no business being on that horse and that he had been pushed by the facility beyond his abilities. And I should know having worked with him for a year in fight scenes and seeing his physical awkwardness, firsthand. Tall and lanky are not great indicators for being a natural athlete and he was not a natural. He was great at take offs, landings and wire flying in general, though. And a qualified pilot, as I'm sure you know. We had a good, professional working relationship at that time but were never going to be "buddies". He was "the star" and I was the double. And as I've heard you say many times, and it's the truth, there is a hierarchy, a "caste system" if you will, in the business. It's unspoken but it's there. I went on to perform in three more West End musicals including Miss Saigon and Guys and Dolls, stunt doubled on film for Gene Hackman in Company Business and Liam Neeson in Rob Roy. I gave up the business in 1996 when the children started to grow up. But i carried on directing and occasionally acting in local productions near my home town in Plymouth, Devon, England. My second wife had begun a Children's Theatre Company (musicals) and it's been going now for over 25 years. The children are now in their early thirties and thriving, I'm blessed to say. My daughter is professional and received a scholarship over ten years ago to Guildford School of Acting. She sings for her bread and butter and is doing very well. Regarding "the business", the moral to the story is perseverance. You began in New York giving it six months. And you realised, very soon, that was silly. And you still persevere to this day. That's what it takes. To make a living at it is most rare and you give the percentages in your videos. That's being real, telling the truth. Well done. You're a sweetheart and your videos strike a cord with people. Many are encouraging you to write a book. And I agree. I wish you well, dear Jill. And encourage you to carry on. It's in your blood. And that's just fine😊 Love Peace Grace 🌈 Markandeya Shanti Shanti Shanthi HariH Om Tat Sat 🕉️🙏

[@paradisecaregiving7126]

​@@jilldaltonnyc7545 PS Can we please see more of your cat from time to time. I'd like to know its name, how old he/she is and how amazing he/she is regarding your well being and companionship. I have 3 at my little hermitage. I love them so much. Sadly, I'm returning to the UK due to ill health in November but have found a place, an Animal Ashram here in Tiruvannamalai, that will look after them. I'm having an enclosure built there so that they can remain together. That's my promise to my Beloved Guru, Bhagwan Sri Yogi Ramsuratkumar. Though he passed (Mahasamadhi) in 2001 and I found the kittens on my roof, ill and malnourished in 2022, I heard his voice say that i was to look after them and they were to remain together. There is something remarkable, unique about cats. Spiritual, some may say. What is your feeling? 🌈 Yogi Ramsuratkumar Jaya Guru Raya 🦋

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

@@paradisecaregiving7126 On your suggestion, I am starting my next video by introducing Magpie. She has been my companion for almost 14 years, and I adore her. She has many physical ailments and, according to my vet, shouldn't be here. But she is strong and courageous and has taught me so much. My fear is that she's staying beyond her time because she doesn't want me to be alone, so I've told her on more than one occasion that she is free to go whenever she needs to, and I'll be fine. She also made a surprise appearance later in the video, which she had never done before. I'm glad your kitties will be well taken care of. I know how much you will miss them. I'm going to be devastated when she goes, but I made her promise to greet me on the other side. I don't ask for much. I'm sorry to hear that you are ill, but I hope you will get the care you need to continue your journey. I feel honored that you reached out to me. That means a lot. Perhaps Chris had a small part in that as well. I think you need to write a book about your journey with Superman. Blessings to you. And yes, i believe cats are spiritual creatures. The Egyptions worshiped cats as divine symbols. 😾

[@James-y5s8x]

I am 57 he was too young

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Agree. He was way too young.

[@CoddiwomplerDeb]

Dog bless you Jill!! 😘🤗

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you.

[@jimh3595]

👍

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you.

[@kunserndsittizen2655]

My grandmother got paralyzed around the same time he did.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Oh my goodness. I'm so sorry about that. I can't imagine. I hope she was able to deal with that huge trauma.

[@kunserndsittizen2655]

@@jilldaltonnyc7545 it eventually killed her and ruined our family. A doctor’s negligence.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

@@kunserndsittizen2655 I'm so sorry. I can't even imagine. Christopher was blessed in that he had the best healthcare money could buy. It was so expensive that Robin Williams paid many of the medical bills. I hope your family can recover from this huge trauma.

[@susanhorton9492]

what about henry ?

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Never fear. He'll be back.

[@kevinmichaelcallihansr5053]

🐬

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you.

[@FreemonSandlewould]

You take actors way to seriously. They're idiots. The correct attitude was the one the kings had. Lower than janitors.

[@nonenoneonenonenone]

Certainly lower than musicians...mostly.

[@beckybrocchini2044]

I am so happy to have truly stumbled on to you and your fabulous KZbin videos. The fluidity in which you deliver is welcoming, familiar even and also filled with excitement and wonder. Thank you for brightening my day. My daughter suffers a dynamic disability and I am her caregiver. His tenacity and exuberance for life inspires. He is a remarkable spirit. ❤️

[@jesterforhire]

Christopher Reeve was an exceptional individual. Actors come in all shapes and types. Jealous much?

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Exactly. Thank you.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

I'm glad you stumbled upon my channel as well and I'm glad you enjoy my content. Blessings to. you and your daughter.

[@xaviergarcia165]

Thanx again Jill…as always your beautiful hands conduct my eyes moving through the kaleidoscope of my dreams. PS your eyes are not bad either.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Oh thank you!

[@RebekahCurielAlessi]

Another fulfilling episode. Encouragement and inspiration shine forth. 🪞

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Thank you so much.

[@lionden8421]

Oh yeah, Juilliard trained. True actor.

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Chris and Robin Williams were roommates at Julliard and stayed best friends till the very end.

[@howardschultzberg4263]

Another wonderful chapter of your life...... Thanks for sharing !!! However....I find it hard to believe he only was paid $50,000 for the first Superman film....You are certainly not counting residuals, et al....He became somewhat cynical about the role, but that happens a lot, doesn't it? I did 50+ SAG shoots, so I should know.🤩🤩🤩

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

Reeve was new to Hollywood and whoever negotiated his contract failed. Later when he realized what the deal was he was furious. I'm sure he made up for it in later contracts.

[@Richie8a8y]

Thank You for sharing Jill - I need this kind of strength again. Christopher Reeve was a force. I never met him but I was “thrown” from a horse when I was 27. His name was Spook and he sure as shit lived up to it. A group of us were astride the horses we’d just met as we sauntered from the stable yard towards the pasture. It was early spring, early afternoon and our guide mentioned it was the first time this spring that the horses were out with riders. Just as we made it to the pasture the wind blew, and Spook reared, swung 180, and tore off at “breakneck” speed in the direction of the woods along the highway at the base of a mountain. I decided I wasn’t up for the trip and as I looked for an opportunity along the rocky - grassy - rocky ground I lit off the horse and did a tuck and roll. I don’t know how I wasn’t killed or worse. I’d been on a horse a few times as a child. This was terrifying! I had a few scrapes from the branches but otherwise there wasn’t a mark on me. My companions and the “guide(?)” saw me as I limped up alone from the road. They found it amusing. I went back to the house I’d rented us. The horse wasn’t found till the next day. Later that spring Christopher was paralyzed. I’ve thought about him often. A few years later I rented a U Haul with a jumping horse on it to move a friend from Boston to New York City. On the trip I’d pet the dashboard every once in a while and say, “Good Boyyy Spook, Good Boy.”

[@jilldaltonnyc7545]

First, that's amazing that you weren't severely harmed. I'm glad you made it out okay. Second, never name a horse Spook. Names have energy. You were wise to have the wherewithal to plan your escape and execute it.