George Reeves

Date of Birth: January 5, 1914

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: June 16, 1959

Biography

George Reeves was an American actor best known for his role as Superman in the television program “Adventures of Superman” (1952-1958). Born George Keefer Brewer in Woolstock, Iowa, he was raised in Pasadena, California, after his parents separated. He initially pursued a career in opera and music before transitioning to acting. Reeves made his film debut in “Gone with the Wind” (1939) as one of the Tarleton twins. Despite early promise, his career saw ups and downs until he was cast as Superman, a role that brought him fame but also typecasting, which impacted his career negatively. Reeves’ life ended tragically and mysteriously in 1959, with his death officially ruled as a suicide, though many theories about foul play persist.

5 Interesting Facts about George Reeves

1. George Reeves’ real name was George Keefer Brewer; he changed his name after his mother remarried.

2. Reeves was a skilled boxer and nearly went professional before choosing a career in acting.

3. He served in World War II in the U.S. Army Air Forces and appeared in training films.

4. Reeves was posthumously awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960.

5. His mysterious death has fueled numerous conspiracy theories and was the subject of the 2006 film “Hollywoodland.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George Reeves

1. “You can’t take a kid’s hero and put him in a lot of smutty situations. You can’t make him a heavy drinker or a woman-chaser. That’s not proper.”

2. “So many people have so much trouble in their lives, and I feel that if I can provide a little relief for them, then I’ve done my job.”

3. “Superman is a friend. He’s a friend you can count on to be there when you need him.”

4. “Fame is a funny thing. It can be a great thing, but it can also be a curse.”

5. “I think everyone wants to be a hero now and then. It gives you a sense of purpose, of helping others.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, George Reeves’ net worth was estimated to be around $1 million, adjusted for inflation, which would be approximately $10 million today.