1 of 9
Actor Christopher Reeve has died at the age of 52 in a New York hospital. Reeve was best known for his role in the successful Superman films of the 1970s and 1980s, where he brought the comic book hero to life.

2 of 9
The Superman series made the previously unknown Reeve into a household name. He appeared alongside stars including Gene Hackman (left) and Marlon Brando.

3 of 9
Reeve was pictured at the US premiere of the first Superman movie with co-star Gene Hackman in 1978.

4 of 9
He met the Queen at the European royal charity premiere in London's Leicester Square later that year.

5 of 9
Is it a bird, is it a plane? No, it's Superman. The original cartoon character could not fly but Reeve's portrayal enhanced the cartoon hero's superstar status.

6 of 9
But the actor was paralysed after a riding accident in 1995. He made a memorable appearance at the 1996 Oscars, when he received two standing ovations.

7 of 9
After his accident, Reeve went on to become an advocate for spinal cord injury research. He was always determined that he would walk again.

8 of 9
Reeve continued to act in films including Rear Window in 1998, but he became equally well-known as a campaigner for those with disabilities.

9 of 9
His wife Dana said she wanted to thank "the millions of fans from around the world who have supported and loved my husband over the years".