In a monumental hit, Christopher Reeve, the young actor chosen to play the lead in Superman, made his first appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. The talk show was buzzing with excitement as Rodney and Steve, the noted film critics, praised Reeve’s performance in the movie.
Reeve, humble and ready for anything, expressed his gratitude for the success of the film. He humorously remarked on the irony of people having to pay to see him fly in the movie while his appearance on the talk show was free. The audience couldn’t help but laugh at his witty remark.
The conversation then turned to the topic of flying, as Carson jokingly asked Reeve if people expected him to fly in wherever he appeared. Reeve shared some of the stock jokes he often heard, such as flight attendants thanking him for being on the plane in case of an emergency.
They also discussed the process of getting the role of Superman and the physical preparation Reeve had to undergo. He mentioned how the producers initially offered him false muscles but he insisted on having the physical size for the role. Reeve’s dedication to the character’s authenticity and his refusal to wear fake muscles added an extra layer of believability to his portrayal.
The conversation then shifted to the flying sequences and special effects in the film. Reeve revealed that a team called Stage Airways was responsible for making him look like he was flying. They used advanced equipment and a videotaped camera to capture the flying scenes, allowing Reeve to see his movements and even identify specific landmarks from high above.
Carson couldn’t help but bring up the previous portrayals of Superman, particularly the iconic George Reeves. Reeve mentioned how he appreciated the campiness of the old Superman series and compared it to a modern dance performance in the sky. The advancement in technology allowed for a more realistic and visually stunning portrayal of the character.
The interview took a lighthearted turn as Carson brought up Reeve’s previous role as a villain on a soap opera. Reeve shared anecdotes about working on soap operas, including the need for quick improvisation and the excessive coffee consumption on set.
The interview concluded with a film clip from Superman, showcasing a humorous interaction between Superman and Lois Lane. The clip highlighted the sophisticated and cleverly written dialogue that added depth to the film beyond its action-packed scenes.
Overall, Christopher Reeve‘s first appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was filled with humor, insight into his role as Superman, and appreciation for the legacy of the iconic character. Audiences were captivated by Reeve’s charm and the behind-the-scenes details he revealed about the making of the film.
Originally aired on January 31, 1979
