George Reeves had a unique genuineness in his portrayal of Clark Kent and his alter ego "Superman" beloved super hero! I celebrate his life not his death! Rest forever in inner peace and happiness!
There's a story out there about George Reeves playing Superman at a state fair. A little boy brought a pistol with him to see if bullets would bounce off Superman's chest. Reeves, cool as a cucumber, stays in character and tells the boy to hand him the gun......because he feared the bullets recocheting and striking other people. Truly a great actor.
@@deadstrobeOh my god, I didn’t know this, MacLachlan would have been perfect. Ben Affleck did ok, although he wasn’t able to capture the presence George had when he put on the cape and costume.
Thing for me George Reeves did so well as Clark Kent is show what mild-mannered really is. It isn't nerdy or incompetent. It just means someone who isn't prone to big displays of emotion. You can see his Clark being a good reporter
The characterizations by several of the other Superman actors have always annoyed me. Christopher Reeve is the worst, I believe, as he plays Clark as a wimp, klutz, and almost an idiot. A super human from another planet would hide in plain sight without acting like a bumbling idiot, which would actually draw attention to himself. He would be just like George Reeves' version, confident, strong, in command, and always knowing that at any time, he was never in danger. The bumbler the others played would have most likely never have gotten the job Clark had. No one would hire him. The first time Clark is in the office shows it all. George Reeves walks along the window ledge and asks Perry for the job. No experience, no references, but he still wants the job, goes and gets the story, and shows Perry he can do it. Christopher Reeve has the job already, which is good, because he stumbles, is annoying, acts like a Forrest Gump before FG was popular, and frankly does not exude any confidence of being able to do any job, let alone this important one. Most dislike Dean Cain, but his depiction of Clark as about the same. In one episode Lois said something about Superman, and Clark reminded her that Clark Kent was who he was and Superman is what he did. There were no two people in one body or split personalities.
It is a characterization thing. The dichotomy between Clark and Superman and "who is the real person" is a question most modern interpretations have played with. The Classic media like Fleisher and George Reeves didn't bother with that. Christopher Reeve seems to think "Clark" is a disguise and "Superman" is the real person. That has largely reversed since the 90s. Dean Cain and his successors and the Animated forms have seen Clark as the "real person" and "Superman" as a character he plays on TV. Notice the hair product.
George was the perfect Clark Kent. At times he was mild-mannered, but other times he could be direct or forceful. A good example of this was in “The Big Freeze”, when Clark pushes Dr. Watts into telling him how to cure Superman.
Being a baby boomer I spent my Saturday mornings with westerns, Sky King & of course Superman. I loved all the characters but George was & still is special to me. They all have a spot in my heart now approaching mid ‘70’s. Thank you Steve.
Well done Steve! I grew up watching George Reeves playing Superman! He was the best! I would run around the house with a towel for a cape and jump off the furniture until my mom would yell at me to stop before I hurt myself. I wouldn't do that again until the next day then get into trouble again!
George Reeves' Superman was not only great TV for us when we were kids, he was such a great role model. Always on the side of doing what is right and being truthful and showing us how that always works out for the best. I don't see any such role models for children in all the rubbish they watch these days.
I was born in 1957. This was, for a long time, my definitive Superman. I became aware, later on, of the sad circumstances of his life. It's nice to see, even after all this time, some acknowledgement of his part in the whole 'superhero' cannon.
I was born in 1954...and I remember Adventures of Superman on Saturdays when I was around 4 years old. My first Superman comic book was issue 133(November 1959)-The first issue that Superman co-creator Jerry Siegel wrote for in years.
What an extraordinary documentary about George Reeves, the true Superman. Thank you so much for bringing TAOS back to me at my older age. I was only 4 years old when George died & my parents in shock when they read the NY daily news of his passing. Very sad day & I didn't fully understand his death until I was 7 years old. Love the fact that TAOS lives on. Chris Reeve played an amazing Superman & Clark Kent las close to comic book as possible & Superman 1 B. Superman was my hero, idol growing up & could not wait to watch Superman after school. I still can't believe he took his own life & always will suspect potential foul play. I miss both George & Christopher so much. It aches me they both could not fulfill their golden years in peace & see how much they were loved. RIP
This was my show. As a boy, living in San Francisco, I was alone with my older sister (she was probably ten), when an earthquake hit. Everyone in the apartment building rushed outside. I refused because I was watching Superman.
I loved watching these in the early 60's then at that time my oldest sister told me Superman wasn't real! I was so mad a her and to this day I tell her she ruined it for me, she is now 72 years old.
George Reeves was the Superman I grew up with. That was my favorite TV show as a child by far. To this day I still get goosebumps when I hear the opening music and monologue from the show. I feel thrilled when I hear it, like something special and exciting is about to happen. I LOVED the show!!! The George Reeves Superman helped to inspire and inform my sense of morality. For me, he will always be the best Superman.
I am a true die hard GEORGE REEVES - SUPERMAN- fan , collector, owning all the Adventures of Superman DVD's plus growing up in the 1950's I've watched every episode at least 10 times and my favorite, " PANIC IN THE SKY" about 50 times, I was deeply sadden when George Reeves died as at the time( I was 6) I really thought he was SUPERMAN!! Now I wish WB would remaster The Adventures of Superman to BLU RAY with more special features , even with commentaries by Mr. JIM NOLT!! yesss love George Reeves, n love The Adventures of Superman!! R.I.P. George Reeves!!!
George Reeves was my first Superman. I remember watching reruns as a little kid (and as a kid, I knew how crazy the storylines were...but they were fun). I remember asking my father how come George Reeves wasn't still on TV and he told me that he had died before I was born. And that really made me sad. Christopher Reeve was the first big screen Superman I saw and I loved the movie. But George Reeves will always hold that little spot in my heart as my first Superman.
Thank showing everyone from our generation our first and best superman George Reeves was. He truly was the true essence of how superman really is. Thank you for that . I to this day still miss George Reeves superman and the excellent job he did. God Bless you Steve. From Edwin.
What a fantastic presentation. I was aware of most of the facts presented as a lifelong fan of George Reeves' portrayal of Superman, but this was extremely well done and entertaining. Thank you. Certainly no disrespect to the other actors but, as it was with Clayton Moore and Jay Silverheels as the best Lone Ranger and Tonto, George Reeves and Superman are one and the same in my book. George Reeves was something special!
One word - Outstanding!!! George was the best Superman. Born in 1950, that June day in 1959 was the saddest of my childhood. Nothing was the same after that. There was an empty place in my heart that took a long time to disappear. As an adult I attempted to write an article about seasons 7 and 8, and after getting a lead that Kellog's had many of the written scripts, I thought I had found the "Holy Grail." Kellog's told me they didn't have them and had no record of ever having them. I know they must exist somewhere, but have not been able to track them down. Here is a little-known fact. In 1956, NBC signed Tony Bennett to do a weekly summer replacement show. His first guest was George Reeves who sang and played the guitar. There is no film of that show. NBC said it was probably destroyed since there was little room for storage in their New York studios. They did confirm George was on the show. I then attempted to contact Tony Bennett (about 10 years ago), but his son said his father did not recall if George was on the show or not.
I would watch "Superman" on our family's 21-inch RCA, black-and-white console TV (with the rabbit ears on top of the set) on occasion in the late afternoons after school, in the 1950s. I loved that show and was very drawn to how George Reeves played Superman's character because of his constant show of kindness, bravery, strength and moral stance. Now, to the NARRATOR of this presentation, whom I think is named Steve: I would like to say that this was a beautifully narrated video presentation. I felt like I was back in a college classroom listening to a colorful presentation (not a lecture) by a professor who was wonderfully adept at keeping his students' attention. And I also felt like I was sitting in church, listening to the pastor giving a sermon on what "allows" a person to love others, and what it is about receiving love in return. (It also was refreshing to not hear the terms "icon" and 'iconic" used in your narration! So, for that, I thank you deeply for avoiding the "need" to use these two miserable, tired cliches.) Finally, I was quite mesmerized by your presentation, as I was pulled in by your appreciation of Language Eloquence you employed in creating a strong, compelling story of your own, and that held within its flow of (carefully selected) words the kind of strength and beauty that were found in the very characters you were profiling. So thank you! ~drs (12/24/24...Christmas--early eve!)
Random question I ask to everyone when they have a comment like this. You were 7 in 1958, how did you see the decades as they went by? I'm born 1980, so I've seen the leftovers of late 60's & 70's but really came into my character in the 90's and early 2000's What where the 70's, 80's & 90's for you?
I'm already having a tough week, and then you go and make me cry, Steve. Being born in the mid-70s, The Adventures of Superman were on in syndication in the afternoons, along with Star Trek and Batman. Those three shows were a huge part of my childhood, but you succinctly explain just what made Reeves' portrayal so wonderful. Sure, my favorite superhero was Batman, and Kirk, Spock and McCoy helped round out my moral code, but I looked up to his Superman the same way I looked up to my father. They were strong men who could do anything in my eyes, but they were both men who I knew I could feel safe with. They were protectors, and they were always there with an encouraging word or would be there to catch you when you fell. Sure, I've truly enjoyed other actors in the role, but Reeves was my first Superman. Thanks for this one, Steve.
While I didn't watch much of George's portrayal of Superman, from what I've seen he did a good job with Superman for his time, and I definitely enjoyed his cameo in the "I love Lucy" series.
For me, this is one of your best videos ever. George Reeves was my first Superman. Until Christopher Reeve, George Was THE Superman. As I saw Superman the Motion Picture at age 8 and still believed that a man could fly, Christopher was another Great Superman. But neither detracted from the other. I'm 54. The Adventures of Superman was my favorite show to watch from age 3 well through my teens. I didn't stop watching it because any of the gold had rubbed away, but merely adult life had it's requirements. Your analysis and examination of George Reeves as Superman is perfect. There is nothing I can say that could add to all you said, other than Thank you for this and I wholly agree. Superman's actual purpose you summed up perfectly at the end. Superman's greatest powers are Compassion, Honesty, Goodness, Kindness and all of the qualities of all the best mentors which you bring up are true. To give you an idea how deep this hits me, I was crying at the end of you video, as what you said was heartfelt and from within. Both what that Superman taught us and the sadness of the end of Reeves life. And in me is that same set of resonant values. And As I finish writing this here, I shed these tears again. For an Ideal. For a Direction. For a Hope... That we can still see that example and have the ideals of to achieve the best of them for each other.
Steve Shives videos are always interesting and informative and enjoyable to watch. Keep up the good work Steve Shives and I'll "we'll" keep watching your videos here on You Tube.
An excellent journalistic presentation that leaves some of us with teary eyes for sure. There really was something very special about our true and beautiful, real Superman...
This was the superman of my childhood. Loved him in I Love Lucy with the name credit as Superman. I have a polaroid photo in storage of him at a fair with Kryptonite Man who only appeared with him at live appearances. Your parting words really hit hard and true. Thank you
Reeves was my first experience of suicide as a child. I discussed it frequently with my father, a rational, atheist engineer. I never could wrap my head around it. Nobody talked about Reeves publicly after he died. He just disappeared. That scared me worse than his actual death. It's like our country, our culture, was so ashamed of him, like his personal crisis betrayed us. I've seen every episode, multiple times. Because, of course, despite the stigma, he was still bank in reruns. I could not understand how this grinning, kind, strong, quiet guy could be shunned and erased like that. That's more terrifying to a kid than a bullet wound to the head. American culture did Reeves dirty. That's the state of mental health in this red, white and blue hellscape. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 💲💯😢💗💪🏾
That may be why so many people believe he was murdered, because suicide was even more of a stigmatic thing than it is now. And it's still seen as "a coward's way out" and whatever else. While both situations are bad, murder seemed more "acceptable" at that time than suicide.
@divinelightshine I have to agree. He was excited about the new Superman season, had a fiance, left no suicide note, and gave no sign of depression. It was either murder or a real stupid accident after drinking too much.
Again another fantastic video essay, I need to be honest here, when you do one of these, you almost bring a tear to my eye. Growing up in Australia during the 70's this was the superman that i first saw (yeah i know in many ways Australian tv was way behind the times back then), the way you described the series sent me back to then time, damn good work
Fellow Aussie here, but maybe a decade older LOL CBN8 (Orange) showed: Superman - George Reeves defined Superman to this Aussie kid The Lone Ranger - Clayton Moore defined him Hopalong Cassidy - William Boyd ABC Channel One: Robin Hood AND William Tell - Richard Greene was both. Memories of hot summers and cold winters and being home to sit in front of the 24 inch B&W HMV TV, whilst mum cooked tea.
I grew up with George Reeves Superman as my hero. When we first got TV I would be glued to it to watch the episodes every week day. While in my primary school years I was stung by an insect that would put me in hospital on the critically ill list. Every afternoon the nurses would put the Adventures of Superman on for me to watch in the ward. I purchased the DVDs a few years back and every now and then put a disc in and watch a few episodes. Still my hero.
Used to watch reruns of this show back in the 60s, it was on every afternoon when I came home from school. There were a few times the TV wasn't working, or I wasn't allowed to watch it, I would listen to it on a radio that picked up TV channels. Brings back a lot of memories
Thanks, Steve, for this moving tribute to George, whose portrayal of Superman/Clark Kent has been a constant, reassuring presence in my life. In these television episodes (the grittier black and white seasons are my favorites), he embodies all that a hero, mentor, friend should be.
As someone who has spent almost my entire life loving George Reeves and working to keep his memory alive, I found your video to be exceptionally good, Steve. I especially like your closing remarks. This Saturday, July 29, 2023, almost 90 fans will gather in Los Angeles to shine a light once more on George Reeves, the People's Friend, and to remember his legacy. In my opinion too, George Reeves was indeed the best Superman.
I've never watched him. In fact I'm not a Superman fan at all and didn't know of George Reeves's existence. However, the love and passion you convey on this video is so magical that I can feel he needs this tribute and needs to be remembered. Thank you, Steve ❤
I wonder who George Reeves' Superman could've been, the person he could've turned to for advice or support...given his end it seems like maybe he didn't have that person in his life, despite being that person for so many others. :(
Very well done. I attended a lecture by Noel Neill in the early 1970s. Surprisingly, only about 20 people showed up. I asked Neill a question. If I could have predicted how she would respond, I would have thought of something else to ask her. That would have been easy. Superman was my favorite show as a kid. The question concerned the semi-controversy over George's death (given his mob connections). She cried.
@@danielland3767 There was a strong possibility George Reeves dealed with loan sharks from The Mafia. And the possibility he was murdered rather than comitted suicide and it was covered up quite well...
That was a great commentary on your part. It truly captured both the actor, Geroge Reeves, playing the role of Superman, while at the same time, describing the Superman, Lois Lane, Jimmy Olson and Perry White's characters and interactions and their incredible adventures together. I was very young, about 5 years of age, when I started watching Superman in the early 1960's, obviously as re-runs. I was unaware of the "drama" until I got older. Everything you said about the Superman role was spot on.....that is EXACTLY what came across the television.
Great job Steve! Thank you! George Reeves' Superman was my hero and my favorite show as a child and my wife and I still watch the Adventures of Superman to this day when it's on.
This was an awesome tribute!!!Steve Shives, Thank you! The older I get, the more i think that Reeve's Superman offers a subtle and nuanced take on the character, unknown since.
Wonderful and thoughtful retrospective! I was borm in 1949 so grew up with the series. It was so iconic and hopeful: "The never-ending battle for truth, justice and the American way!" A great memory from my childhood.
As a kid, I had two things to look forward to after school. Back to back. Sitting on the floor in front of the B&W TV, I would watch the Adventures of Superman followed by the first Japanese anime to be broadcast in the US, Astroboy. What a line-up. I am 68 and those were the days.
I grew up watching George Reeves "Superman". Loved every episode! The current remake, Superman & Lois, is more detailed, entertaining and delves into life's experiences in a marvelous way. Played by Tyler Hoechlin and Bitsie Tulloch who give a wonderful performance. 🙂
A fine, touching tribute. I can't help thinking that if more and better mental health resources had been available, he might have lived to a ripe old age.
I am 70 and I have always measured the Superman actors with George Reeves. He was superman. All these others that have played him I have had to force myself to follow the movie and their characters. Thanks for this article and the extensive coverage you studied and reported on this character, this actor.
I'm old enough to remember watching this Superman series after school in the 60s, and Reeves did do a great superman. A few years back I was watching a few episodes of I love lucy, in one episode up he popped, George Reeves playing Superman, i did a bit of a double take.
A Nice tribute to George Reeves as Superman.Thank you. I still watch the reruns every chance I get. When your a little boy growing up in the fifties, He was your Hero❤
Im a 66 guy so The Adventures of Superman was my introduction to the live character of Superman(in syndication) even b4 the comics. I loved George Reeves as Superman I also cried wen pops told me he was dead. Even though Christopher Reeve (who is my Superman and made me believe a man could fly) George and (Adam West) made me believe in Superman and super heroes. So wen Superman the movie came out, I was a big fan of super heroes already thanks to Reeves. So the way I always explain it now is George is my favorite tv Superman and Christopher is my favorite movie Superman. It is wat it is. Great video ya put a tear in me eye. RIP George Reeves 🙏 💪🏽
When I worked on SUPERMAN (the Donner version) I met Noel Neil who played Lois lane in the original TV series. She and Kirk Alyn played the parents of Lois in the Smallville train cameo. She told me she was convinced that George R was murdered - that in no way was he suicidal. She played the original Lois with Kirk Alyn, too!
For me, George Reeves is the only Superman. The rest are just copies. Even as an adult I would look to find when Superman was on; some college years I’d make my class schedule to let me watch a few times a week, and hoped it’s slot wouldn’t change when the schedule kicked in. I lived in the NYC suburbs was only on TAOS was only on Channel 11, WPIX, usually in the 4:30 slot, but starting as late as 5:30. Thank you for this wonderful look back at one of my most favorite shows of all time 😃!!!
George's take-offs are still the best out of all the Supermen. That fucker would bound out of those windows. And he could bust through a wall like no other.
until this moment i've never felt about superman the way i do about star trek - but you did that for me - truth justice and the american way - if only that could be good for all - thanks as always for your excellent work - in solidarity with workers ever, especially those on the picket lines, SI SE PUEDE
I like George Reeves I grew up in the 60 s watching Superman on television. But Let's get something clear and straight. The Best Superman Ever I Mean Ever Is The One And Only Mr. CHRISTOPHER REEVES. May God Bless Him . In This And Or Any Lifetime. Christopher Reeves Is Was Always Will Be The Best Superman
I was born in 1958 . For me, the t.v. show was everything. Almost every Halloween that I can remember, I was Superman. Even as an adult , I wore the costume. When I was older and started watching shows about the mystery of his death, it made me mad as hell. Poor George. R.I.P. Man of Steel.
I hadn't watched any Superman-related content for a long time until I started watching "Smallville" Monday night. Glad that there will be a new movie. No one will ever do it better than George Reeves.
There were several comic books that were written into the TV episodes Test of a warrior, the dog that new Superman, Superman in exile when he was radioactive, Jimmy Olsen King for a day. There are several other comic books. Ghost of scarlet yard was featured are the comic book is a criminal in jail. Pretty funny ending. I'm blocking enough to have autographs signed by all the actors except for John Hamilton who didn't do that. If people want to look for book called Cereal to Serial. it's a great book about the TV series. I am lucky enough have all the comic books from 1939 through 1961. I remember when George Reeves died in 1959 all the kids in America cried and I was one of them and many kids did not go to school. Love you George. Live on forever. The series is being shown again on TV now.😢
Sorry about a couple of typos up above. Like the ghost of Scotland Yard. It came out as Scarlett. And I was thinking of George in the movie Gone with the Wind.
Thank you. Your discussion was excellent. Superman was my favorite TV show EVER. I missed only one episode. I watched Howdy Doody each weel to be sure that I didn't miss even a moment of the introduction, which I can still recite. Thank you, thank you very much.
Excellent presentation. Over the years I started referring to George Reeves as Uncle Superman. He had a calming effect and his portrayal of Clark Kent was superb: sharp and thoughtful. Christopher Reeve was a fine Superman but his Clark Kent was an oafish clown. So embarrassing.
I am Italian My Mom and I immigrated to Canada to join my Dad in 1954 when I was 6 or so ! It was very hard not knowing anyone or speaking English ! The Tv became my best friend and was everything for me ! I learned how to speak English by watching Superman ,the Lone Ranger, Zorro and all the rest to name a few ! SUPERMAN was and is still my fav today .Growing up listening to how the talked To this day I credit them for not having any perceivable accent other than CLARK KENTS , LOL I can still speak 2 languages fluently thanks to all those. Tv programs .My crime fighting days are NOW over 😂but the memories of that time and ALL MY TV friends are gratefully still in my thoughts ! Tyvm to them all ! ❤
George Reeves had a unique genuineness in his portrayal of Clark Kent and his alter ego "Superman" beloved super hero!
I celebrate his life not his death!
Rest forever in inner peace and happiness!
There's a story out there about George Reeves playing Superman at a state fair. A little boy brought a pistol with him to see if bullets would bounce off Superman's chest. Reeves, cool as a cucumber, stays in character and tells the boy to hand him the gun......because he feared the bullets recocheting and striking other people. Truly a great actor.
Yeah, it was redone in the Affleck "superman" movie Hollywoodland
lol
🎉gotta love him
@@cryptking6283 the director originally wanted Kyle MacLachlan to play George Reeves. But the studio wanted someone more famous. Enter Ben.
@@deadstrobeOh my god, I didn’t know this, MacLachlan would have been perfect. Ben Affleck did ok, although he wasn’t able to capture the presence George had when he put on the cape and costume.
Couldn't get home soon enough, to watch Superman on tv in the 60s and 70s.😊
Thing for me George Reeves did so well as Clark Kent is show what mild-mannered really is. It isn't nerdy or incompetent. It just means someone who isn't prone to big displays of emotion.
You can see his Clark being a good reporter
The characterizations by several of the other Superman actors have always annoyed me. Christopher Reeve is the worst, I believe, as he plays Clark as a wimp, klutz, and almost an idiot. A super human from another planet would hide in plain sight without acting like a bumbling idiot, which would actually draw attention to himself. He would be just like George Reeves' version, confident, strong, in command, and always knowing that at any time, he was never in danger. The bumbler the others played would have most likely never have gotten the job Clark had. No one would hire him.
The first time Clark is in the office shows it all. George Reeves walks along the window ledge and asks Perry for the job. No experience, no references, but he still wants the job, goes and gets the story, and shows Perry he can do it.
Christopher Reeve has the job already, which is good, because he stumbles, is annoying, acts like a Forrest Gump before FG was popular, and frankly does not exude any confidence of being able to do any job, let alone this important one.
Most dislike Dean Cain, but his depiction of Clark as about the same. In one episode Lois said something about Superman, and Clark reminded her that Clark Kent was who he was and Superman is what he did. There were no two people in one body or split personalities.
It is a characterization thing. The dichotomy between Clark and Superman and "who is the real person" is a question most modern interpretations have played with. The Classic media like Fleisher and George Reeves didn't bother with that. Christopher Reeve seems to think "Clark" is a disguise and "Superman" is the real person. That has largely reversed since the 90s. Dean Cain and his successors and the Animated forms have seen Clark as the "real person" and "Superman" as a character he plays on TV. Notice the hair product.
George was the perfect Clark Kent. At times he was mild-mannered, but other times he could be direct or forceful. A good example of this was in “The Big Freeze”, when Clark pushes Dr. Watts into telling him how to cure Superman.
I absolutely loved George Reeves’ interpretation of Superman and especially Clark Kent.
He was the BEST!
Yes
My favorite
He was an underrated actor!
Being a baby boomer I spent my Saturday mornings with westerns, Sky King & of course Superman. I loved all the characters but George was & still is special to me. They all have a spot in my heart now approaching mid ‘70’s. Thank you Steve.
I just turned 70 and continue to watch Superman reruns on TV and DVDs, and probably forever. All the characters were great actors, even the crooks.
Well done Steve! I grew up watching George Reeves playing Superman! He was the best! I would run around the house with a towel for a cape and jump off the furniture until my mom would yell at me to stop before I hurt myself. I wouldn't do that again until the next day then get into trouble again!
George Reeves' Superman was not only great TV for us when we were kids, he was such a great role model. Always on the side of doing what is right and being truthful and showing us how that always works out for the best. I don't see any such role models for children in all the rubbish they watch these days.
I was born in 1957. This was, for a long time, my definitive Superman. I became aware, later on, of the sad circumstances of his life. It's nice to see, even after all this time, some acknowledgement of his part in the whole 'superhero' cannon.
I was born in 1954...and I remember Adventures of Superman on Saturdays when I was around 4 years old. My first Superman comic book was issue 133(November 1959)-The first issue that Superman co-creator Jerry Siegel wrote for in years.
What an extraordinary documentary about George Reeves, the true Superman. Thank you so much for bringing TAOS back to me at my older age. I was only 4 years old when George died & my parents in shock when they read the NY daily news of his passing. Very sad day & I didn't fully understand his death until I was 7 years old. Love the fact that TAOS lives on. Chris Reeve played an amazing Superman & Clark Kent las close to comic book as possible & Superman 1 B.
Superman was my hero, idol growing up & could not wait to watch Superman after school.
I still can't believe he took his own life & always will suspect potential foul play.
I miss both George & Christopher so much. It aches me they both could not fulfill their golden years in peace & see how much they were loved.
RIP
So well expressed,thank you!
This was my show. As a boy, living in San Francisco, I was alone with my older sister (she was probably ten), when an earthquake hit. Everyone in the apartment building rushed outside. I refused because I was watching Superman.
I think George would be pleasently stunned at how much his fan base loves him to this day. God bless you, George!!!
Yes
Never heard anything negative about him!
I loved watching these in the early 60's then at that time my oldest sister told me Superman wasn't real! I was so mad a her and to this day I tell her she ruined it for me, she is now 72 years old.
Congratulations. Perhaps the best, most accurate and well-spoken tribute to George Reeves I have seen. RIP George, you were the best.
Good video here "Steven Shives" telling us all about the legacy of TV's first Superman: George Reeves. Good work!
Rip George and Christopher.
Long live superman...
Oh and Steve
Please please please never stop ♥️
George Reeves was the Superman I grew up with. That was my favorite TV show as a child by far. To this day I still get goosebumps when I hear the opening music and monologue from the show. I feel thrilled when I hear it, like something special and exciting is about to happen. I LOVED the show!!! The George Reeves Superman helped to inspire and inform my sense of morality. For me, he will always be the best Superman.
Amen to that!
I am a true die hard GEORGE REEVES - SUPERMAN- fan , collector, owning all the Adventures of Superman DVD's plus growing up in the 1950's I've watched every episode at least 10 times and my favorite, " PANIC IN THE SKY" about 50 times, I was deeply sadden when George Reeves died as at the time( I was 6) I really thought he was SUPERMAN!! Now I wish WB would remaster The Adventures of Superman to BLU RAY with more special features , even with commentaries by Mr. JIM NOLT!!
yesss love George Reeves, n love The Adventures of Superman!!
R.I.P. George Reeves!!!
Amen!!! Well said!!!
When I think of Superman, it's the George Reeves version that comes to mind for me. He was the best Superman ever! This was an excellent video.
George Reeves was my first Superman. I remember watching reruns as a little kid (and as a kid, I knew how crazy the storylines were...but they were fun). I remember asking my father how come George Reeves wasn't still on TV and he told me that he had died before I was born. And that really made me sad. Christopher Reeve was the first big screen Superman I saw and I loved the movie. But George Reeves will always hold that little spot in my heart as my first Superman.
What a beautiful tribute to the show and to George Reeves. Thank you!
Thank showing everyone from our generation our first and best superman George Reeves was. He truly was the true essence of how superman really is. Thank you for that . I to this day still miss George Reeves superman and the excellent job he did. God Bless you Steve. From Edwin.
What a fantastic presentation. I was aware of most of the facts presented as a lifelong fan of George Reeves' portrayal of Superman, but this was extremely well done and entertaining. Thank you. Certainly no disrespect to the other actors but, as it was with Clayton Moore and Jay Silverheels as the best Lone Ranger and Tonto, George Reeves and Superman are one and the same in my book. George Reeves was something special!
One word - Outstanding!!! George was the best Superman.
Born in 1950, that June day in 1959 was the saddest of my childhood. Nothing was the same after that. There was an empty place in my heart that took a long time to disappear. As an adult I attempted to write an article about seasons 7 and 8, and after getting a lead that Kellog's had many of the written scripts, I thought I had found the "Holy Grail." Kellog's told me they didn't have them and had no record of ever having them. I know they must exist somewhere, but have not been able to track them down.
Here is a little-known fact. In 1956, NBC signed Tony Bennett to do a weekly summer replacement show. His first guest was George Reeves who sang and played the guitar. There is no film of that show. NBC said it was probably destroyed since there was little room for storage in their New York studios. They did confirm George was on the show. I then attempted to contact Tony Bennett (about 10 years ago), but his son said his father did not recall if George was on the show or not.
I would watch "Superman" on our family's 21-inch RCA, black-and-white console TV (with the rabbit ears on top of the set) on occasion in the late afternoons after school, in the 1950s. I loved that show and was very drawn to how George Reeves played Superman's character because of his constant show of kindness, bravery, strength and moral stance. Now, to the NARRATOR of this presentation, whom I think is named Steve: I would like to say that this was a beautifully narrated video presentation. I felt like I was back in a college classroom listening to a colorful presentation (not a lecture) by a professor who was wonderfully adept at keeping his students' attention. And I also felt like I was sitting in church, listening to the pastor giving a sermon on what "allows" a person to love others, and what it is about receiving love in return. (It also was refreshing to not hear the terms "icon" and 'iconic" used in your narration! So, for that, I thank you deeply for avoiding the "need" to use these two miserable, tired cliches.) Finally, I was quite mesmerized by your presentation, as I was pulled in by your appreciation of Language Eloquence you employed in creating a strong, compelling story of your own, and that held within its flow of (carefully selected) words the kind of strength and beauty that were found in the very characters you were profiling. So thank you! ~drs (12/24/24...Christmas--early eve!)
For me, George Reeves will always be 'The Real Superman'!
By far the best! Nobody else even comes close!
Well said n so true!!
I was born before Superman was television when it was on tv I watched it all the time 😊love it
I remember growing up with this Superman, having been 7 in 1958. You've nailed it beautifully.
Random question I ask to everyone when they have a comment like this.
You were 7 in 1958, how did you see the decades as they went by?
I'm born 1980, so I've seen the leftovers of late 60's & 70's but really came into my character in the 90's and early 2000's
What where the 70's, 80's & 90's for you?
My hero as a kid ,RIP
I'm already having a tough week, and then you go and make me cry, Steve. Being born in the mid-70s, The Adventures of Superman were on in syndication in the afternoons, along with Star Trek and Batman. Those three shows were a huge part of my childhood, but you succinctly explain just what made Reeves' portrayal so wonderful. Sure, my favorite superhero was Batman, and Kirk, Spock and McCoy helped round out my moral code, but I looked up to his Superman the same way I looked up to my father. They were strong men who could do anything in my eyes, but they were both men who I knew I could feel safe with. They were protectors, and they were always there with an encouraging word or would be there to catch you when you fell. Sure, I've truly enjoyed other actors in the role, but Reeves was my first Superman. Thanks for this one, Steve.
This is probably one of our best videos it felt more personal to you and seemed heartfelt, worthy of the man and subject matter contained within.
While I didn't watch much of George's portrayal of Superman, from what I've seen he did a good job with Superman for his time, and I definitely enjoyed his cameo in the "I love Lucy" series.
Steve, you are a wonderful writer. Your tribute to Superman and the character of the show was so heart-felt. Thank you.
For me, this is one of your best videos ever. George Reeves was my first Superman. Until Christopher Reeve, George Was THE Superman. As I saw Superman the Motion Picture at age 8 and still believed that a man could fly, Christopher was another Great Superman. But neither detracted from the other.
I'm 54. The Adventures of Superman was my favorite show to watch from age 3 well through my teens. I didn't stop watching it because any of the gold had rubbed away, but merely adult life had it's requirements. Your analysis and examination of George Reeves as Superman is perfect. There is nothing I can say that could add to all you said, other than Thank you for this and I wholly agree.
Superman's actual purpose you summed up perfectly at the end. Superman's greatest powers are Compassion, Honesty, Goodness, Kindness and all of the qualities of all the best mentors which you bring up are true. To give you an idea how deep this hits me, I was crying at the end of you video, as what you said was heartfelt and from within. Both what that Superman taught us and the sadness of the end of Reeves life. And in me is that same set of resonant values. And As I finish writing this here, I shed these tears again. For an Ideal. For a Direction. For a Hope... That we can still see that example and have the ideals of to achieve the best of them for each other.
Steve Shives videos are always interesting and informative and enjoyable to watch. Keep up the good work Steve Shives and I'll "we'll" keep watching your videos here on You Tube.
Great talk, Steve. I'm not a comic book reader, and George Reeves was the only Superman of my childhood. Thanks for this memory.
Thanks for this, for me he was the best Superman ever. Saludos desde Buenos Aires.
An excellent journalistic presentation that leaves some of us with teary eyes for sure. There really was something very special about our true and beautiful, real Superman...
This was the superman of my childhood. Loved him in I Love Lucy with the name credit as Superman. I have a polaroid photo in storage of him at a fair with Kryptonite Man who only appeared with him at live appearances. Your parting words really hit hard and true. Thank you
this was way more touching than I expected... I wish I'd known him as more than the bad CGI cameo in The Flash. Thanks Steve.
Reeves was my first experience of suicide as a child.
I discussed it frequently with my father, a rational, atheist engineer. I never could wrap my head around it.
Nobody talked about Reeves publicly after he died. He just disappeared.
That scared me worse than his actual death.
It's like our country, our culture, was so ashamed of him, like his personal crisis betrayed us.
I've seen every episode, multiple times.
Because, of course, despite the stigma, he was still bank in reruns.
I could not understand how this grinning, kind, strong, quiet guy could be shunned and erased like that.
That's more terrifying to a kid than a bullet wound to the head.
American culture did Reeves dirty.
That's the state of mental health in this red, white and blue hellscape.
¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 💲💯😢💗💪🏾
"Rocketship Seven' WKBW abc network, Buffalo with Dave Thomas.
I watched from Toronto
There's some evidence that George Reeves might not have committed suicide; check out the book Hollywood Kryptonite.
That may be why so many people believe he was murdered, because suicide was even more of a stigmatic thing than it is now. And it's still seen as "a coward's way out" and whatever else. While both situations are bad, murder seemed more "acceptable" at that time than suicide.
There was/still is a big controversy about whether or not George Reeves committed suicide or was murdered.
@divinelightshine I have to agree. He was excited about the new Superman season, had a fiance, left no suicide note, and gave no sign of depression. It was either murder or a real stupid accident after drinking too much.
Love the education that your doing for some viewers keep up the great work
I still watch the original TV show...it's that good
Again another fantastic video essay, I need to be honest here, when you do one of these, you almost bring a tear to my eye. Growing up in Australia during the 70's this was the superman that i first saw (yeah i know in many ways Australian tv was way behind the times back then), the way you described the series sent me back to then time, damn good work
Fellow Aussie here, but maybe a decade older LOL
CBN8 (Orange) showed:
Superman - George Reeves defined Superman to this Aussie kid
The Lone Ranger - Clayton Moore defined him
Hopalong Cassidy - William Boyd
ABC Channel One:
Robin Hood AND William Tell - Richard Greene was both.
Memories of hot summers and cold winters and being home to sit in front of the 24 inch B&W HMV TV, whilst mum cooked tea.
THIS WAS GREAT! Bravo, Steve...and excellent presentation with real affection and sincerity for the actor and the show
I grew up with George Reeves Superman as my hero. When we first got TV I would be glued to it to watch the episodes every week day. While in my primary school years I was stung by an insect that would put me in hospital on the critically ill list. Every afternoon the nurses would put the Adventures of Superman on for me to watch in the ward. I purchased the DVDs a few years back and every now and then put a disc in and watch a few episodes. Still my hero.
Used to watch reruns of this show back in the 60s, it was on every afternoon when I came home from school. There were a few times the TV wasn't working, or I wasn't allowed to watch it, I would listen to it on a radio that picked up TV channels. Brings back a lot of memories
I love this "Greatest X Ever" series so much. Steve, you have real passion for these characters.
Yeah. They have been perfect.
He was the Superman I grew up with !!!! 😊😊 What a great man...
DEFINITELY the best Superman, ever!!! Thank you for the great video and tribute.
Thanks, Steve, for this moving tribute to George, whose portrayal of Superman/Clark Kent has been a constant, reassuring presence in my life. In these television episodes (the grittier black and white seasons are my favorites), he embodies all that a hero, mentor, friend should be.
Watched as a kid. Thanks for this heart warming vid.
Excellent. And love the shirt!
As someone who has spent almost my entire life loving George Reeves and working to keep his memory alive, I found your video to be exceptionally good, Steve. I especially like your closing remarks. This Saturday, July 29, 2023, almost 90 fans will gather in Los Angeles to shine a light once more on George Reeves, the People's Friend, and to remember his legacy. In my opinion too, George Reeves was indeed the best Superman.
I've never watched him. In fact I'm not a Superman fan at all and didn't know of George Reeves's existence. However, the love and passion you convey on this video is so magical that I can feel he needs this tribute and needs to be remembered. Thank you, Steve ❤
Try watching a few installments of the show. You just might see why Steve, our host, was moved to make this video.
I wonder who George Reeves' Superman could've been, the person he could've turned to for advice or support...given his end it seems like maybe he didn't have that person in his life, despite being that person for so many others. :(
That's what happens to many people who help others; in times of need, no one helps them. It's one of the cruel vicissitudes of life.
His murderer never saw justice.
Very well done. I attended a lecture by Noel Neill in the early 1970s. Surprisingly, only about 20 people showed up. I asked Neill a question. If I could have predicted how she would respond, I would have thought of something else to ask her. That would have been easy. Superman was my favorite show as a kid. The question concerned the semi-controversy over George's death (given his mob connections). She cried.
Mob connection?
She had lectures?
What were they like?
@@danielland3767 There was a strong possibility George Reeves dealed with loan sharks from The Mafia. And the possibility he was murdered rather than comitted suicide and it was covered up quite well...
That was a great commentary on your part. It truly captured both the actor, Geroge Reeves, playing the role of Superman, while at the same time,
describing the Superman, Lois Lane, Jimmy Olson and Perry White's characters and interactions and their incredible adventures together.
I was very young, about 5 years of age, when I started watching Superman in the early 1960's, obviously as re-runs. I was unaware of the "drama"
until I got older. Everything you said about the Superman role was spot on.....that is EXACTLY what came across the television.
Great job Steve! Thank you! George Reeves' Superman was my hero and my favorite show as a child and my wife and I still watch the Adventures of Superman to this day when it's on.
This was an awesome tribute!!!Steve Shives, Thank you! The older I get, the more i think that Reeve's Superman offers a subtle and nuanced take on the character, unknown since.
Thank you. Very well done. George Reeves to me was (and is) the definitive Superman. Always will be. Thanks again!
Thank you. He was my hero too.
Steve, I couldn't wait to come home and watch Superman (with him in the staring role) ever day. I loved that show.
My favorite Superman. He did some crazy stuff on that show.
I love these “best ever” episodes. This one really got me in the feels, especially how much feeling Steve puts into his narration.
Wonderful and thoughtful retrospective! I was borm in 1949 so grew up with the series. It was so iconic and hopeful: "The never-ending battle for truth, justice and the American way!" A great memory from my childhood.
Great video. I agree with you. George Reeves was the best Superman ever.
Really well done, Steve. Glad you noted how respectful, polite, and fatherly Reeves made both of his characters.
A Retro Superman would be great
As a kid, I had two things to look forward to after school. Back to back. Sitting on the floor in front of the B&W TV, I would watch the Adventures of Superman followed by the first Japanese anime to be broadcast in the US, Astroboy. What a line-up. I am 68 and those were the days.
I grew up watching George Reeves "Superman". Loved every episode! The current remake, Superman & Lois, is more detailed, entertaining and delves into life's experiences in a marvelous way. Played by Tyler Hoechlin and Bitsie Tulloch who give a wonderful performance. 🙂
A fine, touching tribute. I can't help thinking that if more and better mental health resources had been available, he might have lived to a ripe old age.
There was controversy about his death. The majority of his fans don't believe it was suicide...
I am 70 and I have always measured the Superman actors with George Reeves. He was superman. All these others that have played him I have had to force myself to follow the movie and their characters. Thanks for this article and the extensive coverage you studied and reported on this character, this actor.
I'm old enough to remember watching this Superman series after school in the 60s, and Reeves did do a great superman. A few years back I was watching a few episodes of I love lucy, in one episode up he popped, George Reeves playing Superman, i did a bit of a double take.
To Steve Shives ... your soliloquy at the end of the video was beautifully said. Very nice, indeed.
A Nice tribute to George Reeves as Superman.Thank you. I still watch the reruns every chance I get. When your a little boy growing up in the fifties, He was your Hero❤
I really enjoyed this. George Reeves was my favourite Superman by a long way. Thanks for creating and posting it.
Im a 66 guy so The Adventures of Superman was my introduction to the live character of Superman(in syndication) even b4 the comics. I loved George Reeves as Superman I also cried wen pops told me he was dead. Even though Christopher Reeve (who is my Superman and made me believe a man could fly) George and (Adam West) made me believe in Superman and super heroes. So wen Superman the movie came out, I was a big fan of super heroes already thanks to Reeves. So the way I always explain it now is George is my favorite tv Superman and Christopher is my favorite movie Superman. It is wat it is. Great video ya put a tear in me eye. RIP George Reeves 🙏 💪🏽
THIS WAS AMAZING! Thank you Steve well done ❤
I should go back and watch this series. Haven't seen it since I was a kid.
When I worked on SUPERMAN (the Donner version) I met Noel Neil who played Lois lane in the original TV series. She and Kirk Alyn played the parents of Lois in the Smallville train cameo. She told me she was convinced that George R was murdered - that in no way was he suicidal. She played the original Lois with Kirk Alyn, too!
my favorite Reeves superman is he gets shot at, but ducks when something is thrown at him.
For me, George Reeves is the only Superman. The rest are just copies. Even as an adult I would look to find when Superman was on; some college years I’d make my class schedule to let me watch a few times a week, and hoped it’s slot wouldn’t change when the schedule kicked in. I lived in the NYC suburbs was only on TAOS was only on Channel 11, WPIX, usually in the 4:30 slot, but starting as late as 5:30. Thank you for this wonderful look back at one of my most favorite shows of all time 😃!!!
George's take-offs are still the best out of all the Supermen. That fucker would bound out of those windows. And he could bust through a wall like no other.
My first live action Superman - and one of the best IMHO.
That was sooooo well done. Thank you for expressing how I feel about George and the show. Quite simply, the best Superman.
until this moment i've never felt about superman the way i do about star trek - but you did that for me - truth justice and the american way - if only that could be good for all - thanks as always for your excellent work - in solidarity with workers ever, especially those on the picket lines, SI SE PUEDE
Those gorgeous suits. George knew a good tailor.
I like George Reeves I grew up in the 60 s watching Superman on television. But Let's get something clear and straight. The Best Superman Ever I Mean Ever Is The One And Only Mr. CHRISTOPHER REEVES. May God Bless Him . In This And Or Any Lifetime. Christopher Reeves Is Was Always Will Be The Best Superman
Christopher Reeve. Not Reeves. Different last name than George Reeves.
Supes going after that asteroid was awesome looking.
I was born in 1958 . For me, the t.v. show was everything. Almost every Halloween that I can remember, I was Superman. Even as an adult , I wore the costume. When I was older and started watching shows about the mystery of his death, it made me mad as hell. Poor George. R.I.P. Man of Steel.
I hadn't watched any Superman-related content for a long time until I started watching "Smallville" Monday night. Glad that there will be a new movie.
No one will ever do it better than George Reeves.
In the Season 6 finale, Clark and Bizarro have their fight at Reeves Dam, an homage to George Reeves. 😎👍
There were several comic books that were written into the TV episodes
Test of a warrior, the dog that new Superman, Superman in exile when he was radioactive, Jimmy Olsen King for a day. There are several other comic books. Ghost of scarlet yard was featured are the comic book is a criminal in jail. Pretty funny ending. I'm blocking enough to have autographs signed by all the actors except for John Hamilton who didn't do that. If people want to look for book called Cereal to Serial. it's a great book about the TV series. I am lucky enough have all the comic books from 1939 through 1961. I remember when George Reeves died in 1959 all the kids in America cried and I was one of them and many kids did not go to school. Love you George. Live on forever. The series is being shown again on TV now.😢
Sorry about a couple of typos up above. Like the ghost of Scotland Yard. It came out as Scarlett. And I was thinking of George in the movie Gone with the Wind.
Oh I forgot that the comments of Love there was a book story about the Defeat of Superman.😂
What are the comic book I forgot to mention how about the "Great Caesars ghost" story?
Thank you. Your discussion was excellent.
Superman was my favorite TV show EVER. I missed only one episode. I watched Howdy Doody each weel to be sure that I didn't miss even a moment of the introduction, which I can still recite.
Thank you, thank you very much.
Excellent presentation. Over the years I started referring to George Reeves as Uncle Superman. He had a calming effect and his portrayal of Clark Kent was superb: sharp and thoughtful. Christopher Reeve was a fine Superman but his Clark Kent was an oafish clown. So embarrassing.
I am Italian My Mom and I immigrated to Canada to join my Dad in 1954 when I was 6 or so ! It was very hard not knowing anyone or speaking English ! The Tv became my best friend and was everything for me ! I learned how to speak English by watching Superman ,the Lone Ranger, Zorro and all the rest to name a few ! SUPERMAN was and is still my fav today .Growing up listening to how the talked To this day I credit them for not having any perceivable accent other than CLARK KENTS , LOL I can still speak 2 languages fluently thanks to all those. Tv programs .My crime fighting days are NOW over 😂but the memories of that time and ALL MY TV friends are gratefully still in my thoughts ! Tyvm to them all ! ❤
Beautifully spot on.
I'll admit it, 60 years old and still love this show...
He is one of my favourites
A very nicely done and thoughtful profile. Thank you.