“I don’t worship at the alter of Marlon Brando”: Christopher Reeve Didn’t Hesitate One Bit Before Calling Out His Legendary Superman Co-star For Disappointing Life Decisions
- Marlon Brando, a Hollywood legend, was known for his unpredictable behavior.
- Even Christopher Reeve criticized Brando for failing to inspire new actors.
- Reeve felt Brando's lack of effort was a major disappointment for the industry.
Marlon Brando was a Hollywood paradox: a brilliant actor who, in the eyes of some, was difficult to work with. Famous for his Method acting, he poured his heart into every role. However, as his stardom soared, so did his rebellious streak.
The result? He became known for being too unpredictable. When Francis Ford Coppola initially tried to cast him in The Godfather, studio heads were adamant that Brando (with his diva demands and notorious antics) was a no-go.
They put an offer to work for free, put up a bond, and even take a screen test. Little did they know, Brando’s performance would blow their minds and make them eat their words. And he did, with his performance as Don Vito Corleone. Meanwhile, there was Christopher Reeve, who didn’t mince words about Brando’s disappointing life choices!
Christopher Reeve was Discontent with Marlon Brando’s Work Ethic
In a 1982 interview on Late Night with David Letterman, Christopher Reeve really laid into Marlon Brando, his co-star from Superman. In the film, Brando took on the role of Jor-El, the biological father of Kal-El (played by Reeve).
Reeve didn’t hold back, saying Brando didn’t live up to his potential and just “copped out.” It was a surprising jab, given how the latter is often seen as a film icon. Seems like Superman’s cape isn’t as shiny as we thought! The Rear Window star said (via The Hollywood Reporter):
I must say — I don’t say this to be vicious — but I don’t worship at the altar of Marlon Brando because I feel that he’s copped out in a certain way. He’s no longer in the leadership position that he could be. He could really be inspiring a whole new generation of actors by continuing to work.
The actor continued:
But what happened is the press loved him whether he was good, bad, or indifferent. Where people thought he was this sort of institution no matter what he did, so he doesn’t care anymore. And I just think it’d be sad to be [his age] and not give a damn. That’s all. I just think it’s too bad that the man has been kind of forced into that hostility.
Reeve thought Brando’s behavior was a big red flag. With all his fame, Brando managed to dodge the duties of a leading man. Reeve felt this was a huge letdown, especially since Brando could have been a real mentor to young actors. Instead of setting an example, according to Chris, he was creating a dramatic scene of disappointment.
Critics Missed Marlon Brando’s Unforgettable Legacy
On the other hand, Marlon Brando’s legacy is timeless and unforgettable, even if some critics might not give it a standing ovation. The Hollywood legend shook up acting with his gritty, no-holds-barred style on screen. His unconventional methods might have raised some eyebrows, but that’s just part of his star-studded charm. After all, who said breaking the mold couldn’t come with a bit of flair?
As Francis Ford Coppola put it in an Instagram post wishing the late actor a happy 100th birthday, Brando “was never hard to work with.” Sure, his on-set antics might have been a bit quirky, like a rebellious artist doing his own thing. But when it came to acting, he was a breeze to collaborate with. Brando’s genius came from his unique perspective on everything—from life and people to termites and ants.
Watch Superman (1978) on Amazon Prime Video!
