Who’s Still Alive From the Original 1978 ‘Superman’?
Superman: The Movie soared into theaters in December 1978 and changed superhero films forever. Directed by Richard Donner, it introduced the world to Christopher Reeve‘s now-iconic version of the Man of Steel and featured a powerhouse supporting cast that included legends like Marlon Brando and Gene Hackman. The film did more than set the tone for every superhero film that followed — it created the superhero movie era that we’re still living in.
With a brand-new Superman movie out now from director James Gunn, fans are revisiting the original film that started it all. More than 45 years later, several of its stars are still with us. Here’s a look at who’s still alive from the 1978 classic and where they are now, along with a tribute to those we’ve lost:
Valerie Perrine (81)
Eve Teschmacher
Warner Brothers/Everett Collection; Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images
Valerie Perrine stole scenes as Lex Luthor’s conflicted sidekick Eve Teschmacher, and she reprised her role in Superman II. She was already Oscar-nominated for her role in Lenny by the time she took the part, and fans adored her glamorous charm. Now 81, Perrine has stepped away from acting while facing a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. A moving documentary titled Valerie explored her life and health journey in recent years.
Marc McClure (68)
Jimmy Olsen
Warner Brothers/Everett Collection; Neilson Barnard/Getty Images
As Daily Planet photographer Jimmy Olsen, Marc McClure brought heart and a youthful energy to the film. He appeared in all four Reeve-led Superman films, Supergirl and even popped up in Zack Snyder‘s Justice League decades later. Now 68, McClure occasionally appears at conventions and aims to continue on the original Superman legacy.
Sarah Douglas (72)
Ursa
Warner Brothers/Everett Collection; Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images
Sarah Douglas appeared briefly at the end of Superman: The Movie, but it was her expanded role as Ursa in Superman II that made her unforgettable. At 72, Douglas is still active in the entertainment world, lending her voice to animation including Superman and Batman projects and participating in fan events.
Terence Stamp (86)
General Zod
Warner Brothers/Everett Collection; Tim P. Whitby/Getty Images for BFI
Though his scenes in the original film were limited, Terence Stamp’s General Zod loomed large. Originally, the first two Superman films were going to be one movie, but they eventually split the screenplay into two. By the time Superman II hit theaters, his commanding performance became a defining part of the franchise.
Now 86, Stamp continues to act, write and occasionally grant interviews reflecting on his wide-ranging career. His most recent film role was in 2021’s Last Night in Soho.
Jack O’Halloran (82)
Non
Warner Brothers/Everett Collection; Rochelle Brodin/Getty Images for SCATENA & ROSNER FILMS
Before playing the mute brute Non, Jack O’Halloran was a heavyweight boxer. His imposing presence balanced well with the more vocal villains in Superman II, and his performance became a fan favorite. O’Halloran, now 82, has written a memoir and occasionally appears at conventions. He’s proud of his time in the Superman universe and continues to share behind-the-scenes stories with fans.
In Memoriam
Warner Brothers/Everett Collection
Christopher Reeve (Superman) died on October 10, 2004 at age 52 from cardiac arrest caused by an infection related to his paralysis.
Margot Kidder (Lois Lane) died on May 13, 2018 at age 69. Her death was ruled a suicide by drug and alcohol overdose.
Gene Hackman (Lex Luthor) died in February 2025 at age 95 from complications related to heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
Marlon Brando (Jor-El) died on July 1, 2004 at age 80 from respiratory failure due to pulmonary fibrosis.
Silver Screen Collection/© 2013 Getty Images
Jackie Cooper (Perry White) died on May 3, 2011 at age 88 from natural causes.
Ned Beatty (Otis) died on June 13, 2021 at age 83 from natural causes.
Glenn Ford (Jonathan Kent) died on August 30, 2006 at age 90 from natural causes.
Phyllis Thaxter (Martha Kent) died on August 14, 2012 at age 92 due to complications of Alzheimer’s disease.
Susannah York (Lara) died on January 15, 2011 at age 72 from multiple myeloma.
Remind 