Biography & Career
Margo Kidder was a celebrated actress known for her versatility and significant contributions to film and television across five decades. Born on October 17, 1948, in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada, Kidder eventually became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2005. Her career began in the mid-1960s, and she quickly established herself as a staple in cult classics and blockbuster films. Kidder’s breakout role came in 1978 when she was cast as Lois Lane in the film Superman, a performance that earned her a Saturn Award and enduring recognition for her portrayal of the iconic character. She reprised this role in three sequels, solidifying her place in cinematic history.
Throughout her career, Kidder appeared in numerous notable films, such as Sisters (1972), Black Christmas (1974), The Great Waldo Pepper (1975), and The Amityville Horror (1979). Despite a few setbacks, her talent led to regular appearances on television series, including Boston Common, and guest spots on Smallville and The Haunting Hour. She continued to act in indie films, maintaining her presence in the industry until her death on May 13, 2018, at age 69 in Livingston, Montana. Her passing was ruled a suicide due to a self-inflicted drug and alcohol overdose.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Born/Died | 1948–2018 |
| Renowned For | Lois Lane in Superman |
| Acting Span | 1965–2018 |
| Notable Films | Sisters, Black Christmas, The Amityville Horror |
Personal Life & Activism
Marjorie Kidder was one of five children. Her parents were Kendall Kidder, an engineer and explosives specialist, and Jocelyn “Jill” Wilson, a history teacher. Sister Annie and brothers John, Michael, and Peter were Kidder’s siblings. Annie worked in acting and charity. After her, her niece Janet Kidder became an actress. Kidder married three times: Thomas McGuane (1975–1977), with whom she had a daughter named Maggie McGuane, John Heard (1979–1980), and Philippe de Broca (1983–1984).
Kidder, diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 1988, had a public mental breakdown and briefly lived on the streets in 1996. She became a mental health champion after these hardships, utilising her personal experiences to combat stigma. Kidder worked relentlessly to raise awareness and change for environmental, anti-war, and LGBTQ causes.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Family | One of five children |
| Marriages | McGuane, Heard, de Broca |
| Children | Maggie McGuane |
| Advocacy | Mental health, environmental, LGBTQ |
Net Worth & Financial Overview
At the time of her death, Margo Kidder’s estimated net worth was approximately $300,000. Despite the financial and health-related challenges she faced throughout her life, Kidder’s career earnings included notable gains such as approximately $700,000 from Superman III. However, the setbacks she experienced resulted in a modest financial standing during her final years. Kidder chose to live away from the Hollywood spotlight, residing in a humble cabin in Montana, reflecting her preference for a quieter life despite her previous fame and success.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth at Death | ~$300,000 |
| Superman III Earnings | ~$700,000 |
| Residence | Cabin in Montana |
Final Years & Death
After a 1990 car accident, Margo Kidder struggled with bipolar disorder, addiction, and physical health in her latter years. Though challenged, she advocated for mental health and destigmatised it via her own experiences. Kidder died quietly at home in Livingston, Montana, on May 13, 2018. The coroner listed her death as a self-inflicted overdose, leaving a legacy of cinematic achievements and heroism and advocacy in the face of hardship.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Struggles | Bipolar disorder, addiction, health issues |
| Date of Death | May 13, 2018 |
| Location | Livingston, Montana |
| Legacy | Acting, mental health advocacy |
FAQ
What is Margo Kidder best known for?
Margo Kidder is best known for her role as Lois Lane in the Superman film series, which earned her widespread acclaim and a Saturn Award.
Margo Kidder’s mental health advocacy: how?
After being diagnosed with bipolar disorder, Margo Kidder became a vocal champion for mental health awareness and stigma reduction.
What were Margo Kidder’s significant films?
Kidder starred in several notable films, including Sisters, Black Christmas, The Great Waldo Pepper, and The Amityville Horror.
How many times did Margo Kidder marry?
Three times, Margo Kidder married Thomas McGuane, John Heard, and Philippe de Broca.
