Gina Heslop
Christopher Reeve, known to many as the iconic Superman, left a lasting impact on the world through his roles as an actor, writer, and philanthropist.
However, his life took a tragic turn when a horse-riding accident left him paralyzed. Despite his physical challenges, Christopher continued to work and inspire many until his passing in 2004. He was survived by his three children: Matthew, Alexandra, and his youngest son, Will Reeve.
Will Reeve was only a young boy when his father became paralyzed, and he shared a close bond with him. Christopher, even in his condition, made an effort to be an involved and loving father, teaching Will to ride a bike and spending quality time with him. Unfortunately, when Will was just 11 years old, he lost his father.
The tragedy did not stop there. Less than a year later, Will’s mother, Dana Reeve, who had been Christopher’s caregiver and a strong pillar of support, was diagnosed with lung cancer. She passed away two years after Christopher, leaving 13-year-old Will an orphan.
At this young and vulnerable age, Will was taken in by Ralph and Ann Pucci, neighbors whom Dana Reeve trusted to raise her son. The Puccis provided Will with a loving and supportive home, helping him navigate through the darkest period of his life. Will has often spoken highly of the Puccis, referring to them as lifesavers who treated him as their own son. Their unconditional love and support allowed Will to emerge from his difficult circumstances relatively unscathed.
Growing up, Will strived to honor the legacy of his parents, who were deeply passionate about making a difference in the world. He took on the responsibility of continuing their work through the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping people living with paralysis. Will is actively involved in the foundation, raising funds and awareness, and ensuring that his parents’ vision for a better world lives on.
In addition to his work with the foundation, Will has also built a successful career in journalism. He is a correspondent for Good Morning America and has contributed to ESPN’s SportsCenter and MSG Network. Despite the challenges he faced growing up without his parents, Will remained focused on his goals and became a respected professional in his field.
People often comment on how much Will resembles his father, Christopher. Will graciously accepts the comparison, noting that while he may physically resemble his father, he aspires to emulate the inner beauty and strength that both his parents possessed. He recalls his childhood as “totally normal,” despite the fame surrounding his father, and cherishes the memories of his parents who raised him with love and care.
He often quotes his father’s words: “A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” This quote not only honors Christopher Reeve’s legacy but also serves as a guiding principle in Will’s life.
In April 2023, Will shared that he is in a relationship with Amanda Dubin, an event planner based in New York City. As Will continues to move forward in his life, he remains committed to the values his parents instilled in him and the legacy they left behind.
