All 70 Actors from Superman Movies (& Shows) Who Passed Away

The Superman franchise has captivated audiences for decades, spanning movies, shows, and iconic portrayals that have defined heroism on screen. From the early days of “Superman and the Mole-Men” to modern blockbusters like “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice,” countless actors have brought the Man of Steel’s world to life, leaving an indelible mark on pop culture. Tragically, many of these talented performers have passed away over the years, reminding us of the fleeting nature of life even among those who embodied immortal characters.

This list honors 70 actors from various Superman projects who are no longer with us, highlighting their contributions to the saga and their broader legacies. Each entry reflects on their roles, careers, and the circumstances of their passing, serving as a tribute to their enduring impact.

Donald MacDonald

Donald MacDonald appeared as a British Scientist in “Superman Returns” (2006), adding a touch of international intrigue to the film’s ensemble. His brief but memorable role contributed to the movie’s exploration of Superman’s return to Earth after a long absence.

Born on September 1, 1938, MacDonald was known for his work in “Superman Returns” and passed away on June 30, 2025, due to cancer. His career spanned various supporting roles, showcasing his versatility in both film and television.

Gene Hackman

Gene Hackman portrayed Lex Luthor in “Superman” (1978), “Superman II” (1980), “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987), and “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut” (2006). His charismatic and cunning depiction of the villain became a benchmark for the character, blending intellect with menace.

Born on January 30, 1930, Hackman was renowned for “The French Connection” and died on February 18, 2025, from cardiovascular disease. His acclaimed career included multiple Academy Awards, cementing his status as a Hollywood legend.

Angus MacInnes

Angus MacInnes played the Prison Warden in “Superman II” (1980) and “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut” (2006). His authoritative presence added tension to scenes involving the villains’ escape from the Phantom Zone.

Born on October 27, 1947, MacInnes was known for “Star Wars” and passed away on December 23, 2024, cause undisclosed. He brought depth to supporting roles across science fiction and action genres.

William Russell

William Russell appeared as the 8th Elder in “Superman” (1978) and “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut” (2006). His role contributed to the solemn depiction of Krypton’s council, emphasizing the planet’s doomed fate.

Born on November 19, 1924, Russell was famous for “The Great Escape” and died on June 3, 2024, cause undisclosed. His extensive career included pioneering work in British television, particularly in “Doctor Who.”

Steve Ostrow

Steve Ostrow played a Vanderworth Relative in “Superman Returns” (2006). His appearance added familial layers to the storyline involving Gertrude Vanderworth’s inheritance.

Born on September 16, 1932, Ostrow was known for “Superman Returns” and passed away on February 3, 2024, cause undisclosed. He contributed to various ensemble casts in film.

Phyllis Coates

Phyllis Coates portrayed Lois Lane in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). Her performance captured the intrepid reporter’s spirit in the franchise’s first feature film.

Born on January 15, 1927, Coates was recognized for “Superman and the Mole-Men” and died on October 11, 2023, from natural causes. She had a prolific career in early television and B-movies.

Margia Dean

Margia Dean appeared as Mrs. Benson in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). Her role provided a grounded, everyday perspective amid the superhero chaos.

Born on April 7, 1922, Dean was known for “Loan Shark” and passed away on June 23, 2023, cause undisclosed. She was a staple in mid-20th-century exploitation films.

Hugh Maguire

Hugh Maguire played Jack O Dwyer in “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” (2016). His character added realism to the film’s depiction of Metropolis life.

Born on April 22, 1933, Maguire was featured in “No Sudden Move” and died on May 18, 2023, from natural causes. His work often involved character-driven supporting roles.

Pepper Martin

Pepper Martin portrayed Rocky in “Superman II” (1980) and “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut” (2006). His tough-guy persona brought humor and conflict to diner scenes.

Born on September 20, 1936, Martin was known for “Superman II” and passed away on March 18, 2022, from lung cancer. He had a background in professional wrestling before acting.

Antony Sher

Antony Sher appeared as Bell Boy in “Superman II” (1980) and “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut” (2006). His brief role added whimsy to the hotel sequences.

Born on June 14, 1949, Sher was acclaimed for “Shakespeare in Love” and died on December 2, 2021, from cancer. He was a celebrated stage actor with the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Gavan O’Herlihy

Gavan O’Herlihy played Brad in “Superman III” (1983). His antagonistic character provided comic relief and rivalry in the office setting.

Born on July 29, 1951, O’Herlihy was known for “The Descent: Part 2” and passed away on September 15, 2021, cause undisclosed. He appeared in numerous TV shows and films.

Richard Donner

Richard Donner made a cameo as Man Walking by Diner in “Superman II” (1980) and “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut” (2006). As the director of the original “Superman,” his appearance was a nod to fans.

Born on April 24, 1930, Donner was famous for “Superman” and died on July 5, 2021, cause undisclosed. He directed blockbuster hits like “Lethal Weapon” and shaped modern action cinema.

Ned Beatty

Ned Beatty portrayed Otis in “Superman” (1978), “Superman II” (1980), and “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut” (2006). His bumbling henchman role added levity to Lex Luthor’s schemes.

Born on July 6, 1937, Beatty was renowned for “Network” and passed away on June 13, 2021, from natural causes. He earned an Oscar nomination for his dramatic work.

Marcus D’Amico

Marcus D’Amico appeared as Willie in “Superman II” (1980). His role contributed to the small-town dynamics in the film.

Born on December 4, 1965, D’Amico was known for “Superman II” and died on December 16, 2020, from bronchial pneumonia. He also starred in theater productions.

Annie Ross

Annie Ross played Vera in “Superman III” (1983). Her portrayal of Ross Webster’s sister brought sharp wit and villainy to the plot.

Born on July 25, 1930, Ross was famous for “Short Cuts” and passed away on July 21, 2020, from emphysema and heart disease. She was a jazz singer and actress with a vibrant musical career.

Al Matthews

Al Matthews appeared as Fire Chief in “Superman III” (1983). His commanding presence heightened the stakes during the chemical plant disaster.

Born on November 21, 1942, Matthews was known for “Aliens” and died on September 22, 2018, cause undisclosed. He served in the Marines before entering acting.

Margot Kidder

Margot Kidder portrayed Lois Lane in “Superman” (1978), “Superman II” (1980), “Superman III” (1983), “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987), and “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut” (2006). Her feisty and intelligent take on the character became iconic.

Born on October 17, 1948, Kidder was recognized for “Superman” and passed away on May 13, 2018, from suicide by self-inflicted drug and alcohol overdose. She advocated for mental health awareness.

Barry Dennen

Barry Dennen played Dr. McClean in “Superman III” (1983). His role involved the psychological elements of the story.

Born on February 22, 1938, Dennen was known for “Jesus Christ Superstar” and died on September 26, 2017, from injuries from a fall. He voiced characters in animations and games.

Clifton James

Clifton James appeared as Sheriff in “Superman II” (1980) and “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut” (2006). His folksy lawman added charm to the rural sequences.

Born on May 29, 1920, James was famous for “Live and Let Die” and passed away on April 15, 2017, from complications from diabetes. He specialized in Southern authority figures.

Robert Vaughn

Robert Vaughn portrayed Ross Webster in “Superman III” (1983). His suave villainy drove the corporate intrigue plot.

Born on November 22, 1932, Vaughn was renowned for “Bullitt” and died on November 11, 2016, from acute leukemia. He starred in “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.” and earned an Oscar nomination.

Noel Neill

Noel Neill appeared as Ella Lane/Gertrude Vanderworth in “Superman” (1978) and “Superman Returns” (2006). Her roles connected generations in the franchise.

Born on November 25, 1920, Neill was known for “Superman Returns” and passed away on July 3, 2016, after a long illness. She originally played Lois Lane in the 1950s TV series.

Jack Larson

Jack Larson played Bo the Bartender in “Superman Returns” (2006). His cameo paid homage to his earlier role as Jimmy Olsen in the TV show.

Born on February 8, 1928, Larson was recognized for “Superman Returns” and died on September 20, 2015, from natural causes. He transitioned to writing and producing later in life.

John Phillips

John Phillips appeared as Matt in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). His supporting role helped build the film’s mystery.

Born on December 29, 1919, Phillips was known for “John Paul Jones” and passed away on January 11, 2015, cause undisclosed. He had a steady career in film and TV.

Jeff Truman

Jeff Truman played Gil in “Superman Returns” (2006). His character added to the newsroom dynamics.

Born on November 4, 1957, Truman was featured in “Underbelly” and died on December 2, 2014, from brain hemorrhage. He worked extensively in Australian television.

Stanley Lebor

Stanley Lebor portrayed General Romoff in “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987). His military role heightened the Cold War tensions.

Born on September 24, 1934, Lebor was known for “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” and passed away on November 23, 2014, cause undisclosed. He appeared in British TV series.

Graham Stark

Graham Stark appeared as Blind Man in “Superman III” (1983). His comedic bit added humor to the street scenes.

Born on January 20, 1922, Stark was famous for “The Return of the Pink Panther” and died on October 29, 2013, from a stroke. He collaborated often with Peter Sellers.

Larry Hagman

Larry Hagman played Major in “Superman” (1978). His brief military role contributed to the missile crisis sequence.

Born on September 21, 1931, Hagman was renowned for “Dallas” and passed away on November 23, 2012, from complications from myelodysplastic syndrome due to throat cancer treatments. He was a TV icon as J.R. Ewing.

Phyllis Thaxter

Phyllis Thaxter portrayed Ma Kent in “Superman” (1978). Her nurturing performance grounded Clark’s early years.

Born on November 20, 1919, Thaxter was known for “Superman” and died on August 14, 2012, from Alzheimer’s disease. She starred in classic films like “Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo.”

Jackie Cooper

Jackie Cooper appeared as Perry White in “Superman” (1978), “Superman II” (1980), “Superman III” (1983), “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987), and “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut” (2006). His gruff editor became a staple of the Daily Planet.

Born on September 15, 1922, Cooper was recognized for “Superman” and passed away on May 3, 2011, cause undisclosed. He was a child star turned director.

Susannah York

Susannah York portrayed Lara in “Superman” (1978), “Superman II” (1980), “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987), and “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut” (2006). Her ethereal performance as Superman’s mother added emotional depth.

Born on January 9, 1939, York was famous for “Battle of Britain” and died on January 15, 2011, from advanced bone marrow cancer. She earned acclaim for her stage and screen work.

Helen Horton

Helen Horton appeared as Miss Henderson in “Superman III” (1983). Her role supported the office intrigue.

Born on November 21, 1923, Horton was known for “Alien” and passed away on September 28, 2007, cause undisclosed. She voiced the computer in “Alien.”

Don Fellows

Don Fellows played General in “Superman II” (1980) and “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut” (2006). His military authority amplified the global threat.

Born on December 2, 1922, Fellows was featured in “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and died on October 21, 2007, cause undisclosed. He worked in American and British productions.

R.J. Bell

R.J. Bell appeared as Mr. Stokis in “Superman III” (1983). His character added to the small-town festival scenes.

Born on January 11, 1940, Bell was known for “Superman III” and passed away on November 5, 2006, cause undisclosed. He had supporting roles in various films.

Glenn Ford

Glenn Ford portrayed Pa Kent in “Superman” (1978). His fatherly guidance shaped Clark’s moral compass.

Born on May 1, 1916, Ford was renowned for “Gilda” and died on August 30, 2006, from complications from multiple strokes. He was a leading man in Golden Age Hollywood.

John Baer

John Baer appeared as Dr. Reed in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). His medical role advanced the plot’s scientific elements.

Born on June 6, 1923, Baer was known for “Terry and the Pirates” and passed away on January 7, 2006, cause undisclosed. He starred in adventure serials.

Richard Pryor

Richard Pryor played Gus Gorman in “Superman III” (1983). His comedic hacker role brought laughs to the tech-heavy storyline.

Born on December 1, 1940, Pryor was famous for “Superman III” and died on December 10, 2005, from a heart attack. He revolutionized stand-up comedy.

William Hootkins

William Hootkins appeared as Harry Howler in “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987). His journalistic role echoed the Daily Planet vibe.

Born on July 5, 1948, Hootkins was known for “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and passed away on October 23, 2005, from pancreatic cancer. He voiced characters in “Star Wars.”

John Hollis

John Hollis portrayed 4th Elder/Krypton Elder/Russian General 3 (Kremlin) in “Superman” (1978), “Superman II” (1980), and “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987). His multiple roles spanned Krypton’s lore and Earthly conflicts.

Born on November 12, 1927, Hollis was recognized for “Flash Gordon” and died on October 18, 2005, from natural causes. He often played authoritative figures.

Maria Schell

Maria Schell appeared as Vond-Ah in “Superman” (1978). Her council member role highlighted Krypton’s judicial system.

Born on January 15, 1926, Schell was known for “Superman” and passed away on April 26, 2005, from pneumonia. She was a prominent Austrian actress.

Christopher Reeve

Christopher Reeve portrayed Clark Kent/Superman in “Superman” (1978), “Superman II” (1980), “Superman III” (1983), “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987), and “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut” (2006). His embodiment of the hero set the standard for superhero portrayals.

Born on September 25, 1952, Reeve was famous for “Superman” and died on October 10, 2004, from heart failure. He became an advocate for spinal cord research after a paralyzing accident.

Marlon Brando

Marlon Brando appeared as Jor-El in “Superman” (1978) and “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut” (2006). His paternal wisdom anchored the origin story.

Born on April 3, 1924, Brando was renowned for “Apocalypse Now” and passed away on July 1, 2004, from pulmonary fibrosis. He was a method acting pioneer with multiple Oscars.

Philip Gilbert

Philip Gilbert portrayed Newsreader in “Superman III” (1983). His broadcasting role informed the audience of unfolding events.

Born on March 29, 1930, Gilbert was known for “Superman III” and died on January 6, 2004, cause undisclosed. He voiced characters in animations.

Jeff Corey

Jeff Corey appeared as Luke Benson in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). His everyman role drove the investigation plot.

Born on August 10, 1914, Corey was famous for “Beneath the Planet of the Apes” and passed away on August 16, 2002, from complications from a fall. He was blacklisted during McCarthyism and became an acting coach.

Gordon Signer

Gordon Signer played Mayor in “Superman III” (1983). His civic leader role added local flavor to the story.

Born circa 1925, Signer was known for “Superman III” and died on September 3, 2001, from a heart attack. Details of his early career remain limited.

Walter Reed

Walter Reed appeared as Bill Corrigan in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). His journalistic pursuit heightened the tension.

Born on February 10, 1916, Reed was recognized for “How to Make a Monster” and passed away on August 20, 2001, from kidney failure. He starred in Westerns and sci-fi.

Rex Everhart

Rex Everhart portrayed Desk Sergeant in “Superman” (1978). His law enforcement role grounded the urban chaos.

Born on June 13, 1920, Everhart was known for “Friday the 13th” and died on March 13, 2000, from lung cancer. He voiced characters in Disney films.

Kirk Alyn

Kirk Alyn appeared as General Sam Lane in “Superman” (1978). His military father figure added family dynamics.

Born on October 8, 1910, Alyn was famous for “Superman” and passed away on March 14, 1999, from natural causes. He was the first screen Superman in serials.

Phil Warren

Phil Warren portrayed Deputy Jim in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). His deputy role supported the law enforcement angle.

Born on February 12, 1915, Warren was known for “Dangers of the Canadian Mounted” and died on October 4, 1998, cause undisclosed. He appeared in adventure serials.

E.G. Marshall

E.G. Marshall appeared as The President in “Superman II” (1980) and “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut” (2006). His presidential authority escalated the villainous threats.

Born on June 18, 1914, Marshall was renowned for “12 Angry Men” and passed away on August 24, 1998, from lung cancer. He hosted “The Defenders” TV series.

Steve Plytas

Steve Plytas portrayed Russian General 2 in “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987). His role amplified the nuclear disarmament theme.

Born on January 9, 1913, Plytas was known for “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” and died on December 27, 1994, cause undisclosed. He specialized in international characters.

Sam Wanamaker

Sam Wanamaker appeared as David Warfield in “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987). His media mogul role drove corporate villainy.

Born on June 14, 1919, Wanamaker was recognized for “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” and passed away on December 18, 1993, from cancer. He founded the Shakespeare’s Globe reconstruction.

Bob Todd

Bob Todd portrayed Dignified Gent in “Superman III” (1983). His elegant cameo added sophistication to crowd scenes.

Born on December 15, 1922, Todd was known for “Superman III” and died on October 21, 1992, cause undisclosed. He was a comedian in British TV.

Robert Beatty

Robert Beatty appeared as Tanker Captain/U.S. President in “Superman III” (1983) and “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987). His dual roles spanned maritime and political realms.

Born on October 19, 1909, Beatty was famous for “Where Eagles Dare” and passed away on March 3, 1992, from pneumonia. He worked in Canadian and British cinema.

Lee Quigley

Lee Quigley portrayed Baby Kal-El in “Superman” (1978). His infant role symbolized hope for Krypton’s legacy.

Born on August 13, 1976, Quigley was known for “Superman” and died on March 10, 1991, from solvent abuse. His brief life left a poignant mark.

Harry Andrews

Harry Andrews appeared as 2nd Elder in “Superman” (1978). His solemn elder contributed to Krypton’s gravitas.

Born on November 10, 1911, Andrews was renowned for “The Hill” and passed away on March 6, 1989, from viral infection complicated by asthma. He was a respected British actor.

David Garth

David Garth portrayed First Elder in “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987). His leadership role underscored the council’s decisions.

Born on April 15, 1921, Garth was known for “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” and died on May 3, 1988, cause undisclosed. He appeared in theater and film.

Trevor Howard

Trevor Howard appeared as 1st Elder in “Superman” (1978). His authoritative presence set the tone for Krypton’s fall.

Born on September 29, 1913, Howard was famous for “The Third Man” and passed away on January 7, 1988, from influenza and bronchitis. He was nominated for an Oscar.

Esmond Knight

Esmond Knight portrayed Second Elder in “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987). His elder role added wisdom to the proceedings.

Born on May 4, 1906, Knight was known for “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” and died on February 23, 1987, from a heart attack. He overcame blindness to continue acting.

Hal K. Dawson

Hal K. Dawson appeared as Chuck Weber in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). His supporting role enhanced the ensemble mystery.

Born on October 17, 1896, Dawson was recognized for “Superman and the Mole-Men” and passed away on February 17, 1987, from a stroke. He had a long career in vaudeville and film.

Stephen Carr

Stephen Carr portrayed Eddie in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). His character aided in the film’s adventurous tone.

Born on April 23, 1906, Carr was known for “Superman and the Mole-Men” and died on May 20, 1986, cause undisclosed. He directed shorts earlier in his career.

Harry Harvey

Harry Harvey appeared as Doc Saunders in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). His doctor role provided expertise on the mole-men threat.

Born on January 10, 1901, Harvey was famous for “The Pride of the Yankees” and passed away on November 27, 1985, cause undisclosed. He appeared in over 300 films.

Robert Henderson

Robert Henderson portrayed 2nd Editor/Mr. Simpson in “Superman” (1978) and “Superman III” (1983). His editorial roles supported the newsroom bustle.

Born on December 19, 1904, Henderson was known for “Superman” and died on September 9, 1985, cause undisclosed. He worked in transatlantic productions.

Ray Walker

Ray Walker appeared as John Craig in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). His role contributed to the investigative plot.

Born on August 10, 1904, Walker was renowned for “It’s a Wonderful Life” and passed away on October 6, 1980, from heart failure. He was a prolific character actor.

Adrienne Marden

Adrienne Marden portrayed Nurse Ronson in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). Her nursing role added care to the crisis.

Born on September 2, 1909, Marden was known for “Matinee Theater” and died on November 9, 1978, from a heart attack. She appeared in TV anthologies.

Irene Martin

Irene Martin appeared as Esther Pomfrey in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). Her character provided community insight.

Born on September 1, 1891, Martin was recognized for “Motor Patrol” and passed away on December 12, 1973, cause undisclosed. She had early silent film roles.

Byron Foulger

Byron Foulger portrayed Jeff Reagan in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). His role enhanced the supporting cast’s dynamics.

Born on August 27, 1899, Foulger was famous for “The Man with Nine Lives” and died on April 4, 1970, from a heart condition. He was a familiar face in B-movies.

Stanley Andrews

Stanley Andrews appeared as The Sheriff in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). His lawman role anchored the small-town response.

Born on August 28, 1891, Andrews was known for “Road to Rio” and passed away on June 23, 1969, cause undisclosed. He hosted “Death Valley Days.”

Frank Reicher

Frank Reicher portrayed Hospital Superintendent in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). His administrative role managed the medical fallout.

Born on December 2, 1875, Reicher was renowned for “King Kong” and died on January 19, 1965, cause undisclosed. He directed and acted in silent era films.

George Reeves

George Reeves appeared as Superman/Clark Kent in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). His dual role kicked off the franchise’s cinematic era.

Born on January 5, 1914, Reeves was famous for “Adventures of Superman” and passed away on June 16, 1959, from apparent suicide with firearm. He became synonymous with the hero on TV.

J. Farrell MacDonald

J. Farrell MacDonald portrayed Pop Shannon in “Superman and the Mole-Men” (1951). His everyman character added warmth to the story.

Born on April 14, 1875, MacDonald was known for “Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans” and died on August 2, 1952, cause undisclosed. He appeared in over 300 films.

What are your favorite memories of these Superman actors and their performances? Share your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear how they’ve inspired you!