Who Is George Reeves? Age, Biography and Wiki
George Reeves was born on January 5, 1914, and tragically passed away on June 16, 1959. At the time of his untimely death, he was just 45 years old. Famous for his portrayal of Superman in the 1950s television series "Adventures of Superman," Reeves remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. His work not only established him as a style icon in superhero roles but also left a lasting legacy that continues to influence modern portrayals of comic book characters. In 2025, he is celebrated for his contributions to classic television and cinema.
| Occupation | Stage Actor |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 5, 1914 |
| Age | 45 Years |
| Birth Place | Woolstock, Iowa, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Capricorn |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 16 June, 1959 |
| Died Place | Benedict Canyon, Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
Popularity
George Reeves's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Standing at approximately 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm) tall, George Reeves possessed a commanding presence that complemented his role as Superman. While his exact weight during his acting career varied, it was generally around 180 pounds (82 kg). His physicality, combined with his charismatic performances, contributed to his ideal embodiment of the superhero archetype.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status (Boyfriend/Girlfriend/Husband/Wife)
George Reeves was engaged in several relationships throughout his life, with his most notable romantic involvement being with actress Leonore Lemmon. The couple was involved in a tumultuous relationship prior to Reeves' death. His private life was often the subject of public speculation, given the mystique surrounding his death. As of 2025, his romantic history remains a point of interest for fans and scholars looking to understand the man behind the iconic superhero.
When the couple separated, soon after Reeves's birth, Reeves and his mother moved from Iowa to Ashland, Kentucky, to stay with relatives for a time and then to her home in Galesburg, Illinois.
Net Worth and Salary
During his lifetime, George Reeves enjoyed a successful career, though precise figures regarding his net worth are difficult to ascertain. In 2025, projections of what his adjusted net worth would be today estimate it could range in the millions, considering the earnings from merchandise and royalties stemming from his iconic Superman role. His involvement in various television and film roles contributed significantly to his income during his career, and the continued popularity of Superman has likely added to his legacy-related earnings.
After two seasons, Reeves decided not to renew his contract and left the show. He was frustrated with his low salary, the one-dimensional nature of his character, and how associating himself with Superman had ruined his credibility as a dramatic actor. At 40 years old, he also felt uncomfortable playing such an intensely physical role.
Career, Business and Investments
George Reeves’ career spanned several decades, beginning in the 1930s. He worked in both film and television, landing roles in notable films before achieving fame as Superman. In addition to his blockbuster roles, Reeves was involved in live performances and stage shows. While direct information about his business investments is limited, his lasting brand as Superman continues to generate residual income through merchandise and licensing. In 2025, Reeves is acknowledged not only as an actor but as an early pioneer paving the way for future superhero films and series.
Reeves's film career began in 1939 when he was cast as Stuart Tarleton (incorrectly listed in the film's credits as Brent Tarleton), one of Scarlett O'Hara's suitors in Gone with the Wind. It was a minor role, but he and Fred Crane were in the film's opening scene.
(Reeves and Crane both dyed their hair red to portray the Tarleton twins.) After Gone with the Wind was filmed, Reeves returned to the Pasadena Playhouse and was given the lead role in the play Pancho. This part directly led to his being contracted to Warner Brothers. Warner had him change his professional name to George Reeves.
His Gone with the Wind screen credit reflects the change. Between the start of production on Gone With the Wind and its release 12 months later, several films on his Warner contract were made and released, making Gone With the Wind his first film role, but his fifth film release.
Social Network
While George Reeves did not have social media during his lifetime, fans and historians today engage with his legacy online through various platforms. Hashtags and fan pages on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook keep his memory alive, showcasing clips from his performances, fan art, and discussions regarding his impact on pop culture. The interest in Reeves continues to thrive, with social media providing a platform for the exchange of stories, facts, and tributes to his work.
He starred in a number of two-reel short subjects and appeared in several B-pictures, including two with future President of the United States Ronald Reagan and three with James Cagney (Torrid Zone, The Fighting 69th, and The Strawberry Blonde). These roles did little to advance Reeves's career, and his contract with Warners was dissolved by mutual consent.
Education
George Reeves attended both Thomas Jefferson High School and later graduated from the University of Southern California, where he studied journalism before moving towards acting. His education provided a robust foundation that complemented his artistic endeavors, helping him navigate the complexities of Hollywood during a pivotal time in entertainment history.
