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Margot Kidder Has Passed Away

** FILE **This file photo, released by DC Comics, shows actors Christopher Reeve, as Superman, and Margot Kidder, as Lois Lane in a scene from the 1978 film "Superman." (AP Photo/TMS & DC Comics Inc.)

Margot Kidder, who was “Lois Lane” to a generation of fans for her portrayal in four films starring Christopher Reeve, has died.

It is said that she passed away Sunday but no cause of death has given as of yet. Kidder suffered from mental illness in her later years.

To Smallville fans, she was “Dr. Bridgette Crosby” in the Season 4 premiere “Crusade;” she later made a quick appearance in the episode “Transference.” It was hoped that Crosby would return later in the season, especially after the real-life passing of Christopher Reeve, but the show and the actress could not come to the right terms for her return. Like Smallville’s Erica Durance, Kidder hailed from Canada.

Erica Tweeted her own tribute to Kidder earlier today:

“To one kick ass lady,” she wrote. “You will be missed.”

The Superman DVD and Blu-ray collections show why Margot Kidder was perfect for the role of Lois Lane: Several big names auditioned, but only Kidder looked at Superman with a childlike wonder. It’s surely what got her the role.

Our condolences to the friends, fans, and coworkers who lost a heroine. Margot Kidder was only 69 years old.

Craig Byrne

Craig Byrne has been writing about Superman TV since 1995, when the "Lois & Clark Krypton Club" launched. He founded KryptonSite.com in February 2001, becoming the first fan site for The WB/CW television series Smallville. He also wrote the Official Companion books for Smallville seasons 4-7 as well as the Smallville Visual Guide.