This week, we follow the theme of focusing on real-life Wonder Women as we turn the spotlight toward actress Margot Kidder.
My heart got heavy last week as I started receiving texts and email alerts notifying me of the iconic actress’ passing. Anyone who knows me knows that I’m a huge fan and portray her in a dedicated YouTube series called A Minute with Margot. Although it comes off as a biting comedic send up, it is done with nothing but love, empathy, and a big dose of humor. My friend Scotty and I, both Superman and Kidder fans, cooked up the show, and it’s one of my crowing achievements. Without script or direction, I feel I was channeling Kidder herself when we filmed it. Margot did seem like a tough cookie, and I really brought that to the role. I always thought she might think it was funny if she had seen it.
Several years ago, I had the opportunity to meet her at San Diego Comic-Con. I was super nervous to meet her, and I told her as much. “Why? I’m just a schmuck on the street like you.” That made me smile and feel better until I realized, “Hey! Did Margot Kidder just call me a schmuck?” I guess so. And I wouldn’t have had it any other way.
Anyone who grew up in the ’70s is most likely familiar with the name Margot Kidder. She grew to prominence as something of a Hollywood “It” girl. Known for playing Lois Lane opposite Christopher Reeve’s Clark Kent/Superman, she is the only Lois to a lot of people, just as Reeve remains their Superman. She is also widely known for her role in the classic horror film, The Amityville Horror. Kidder had beauty, acting ability, and that certain “it” quality that made you not want to take your eyes off her. She brought a certain feisty independence to the role of Lois Lane and really made the role her own. It was easy to see why Superman might be attracted to this Earth woman, just as the audience fell in love with her.
After playing Lane four times, Kidder’s career would hit a slump and take a dark turn, as she would battle mental illness. She eventually became an advocate for mental illness and continued to do guest appearances and minor roles throughout the rest of her career. Superman brought Kidder and Reeve together, and they remained friends until his premature passing in 2004.
The actress passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 13, 2018. It’s comforting to think of Clark and Lois flying hand in hand through the night sky together again. She will be missed. Margot Kidder was 69.
Rest in peace, Margot. You’ll always be my spirit animal.
Check out my web show, A Minute with Margot, here. (NSFW language warning) Also, follow me on Instagram (@MichaelFitzTroy).
