Actress, Margot Kidder, has died at her Montana home aged 69, Variety reported. Kidder was famous for her role as the original and archetypal Lois Lane and starred alongside Christopher Reeve in the first three Superman films during the 70s and 80s.

Early years

Born in Canada, Kidder rose to fame in the early 70s in a series of television shows such as "Nichols," "McQueen," and "Corwin," according to MSN. Her breakout role came in 1978 when she was cast alongside Christopher Reeve as Superman's love in interest in the original (and the best) "Superman" movie directed by Richard Donner.

Donner cast Kidder after seeing her as the barmaid, Ruth in "Nichols," and was convinced she was the right actress after she tripped into the casting office when she came to audition for the part of Lois Lane.

Donner paid a touching tribute to the late Kidder in a statement shortly after her death: "Margot’s passing is a very painful loss. There was only one true Lois Lane. There was only one true Margot Kidder. Extraordinarily creative, artistic and humorous. An overused statement, but totally true: she touched everyone she met and everyone she worked with. A troubled life, which she overcame through grace. These are difficult words to write, so simply – you will be so very missed, my dear Margot."

Later life

In her later years, Kidder was a vocal political activist and was known for her activism related to anti-fracking campaigns, protest against the Gulf War, and marching for the empowerment of women.

Kidder was also an outspoken campaigner on mental health issues and was very open and honest about her own problems. Kidder had bipolar disorder and suffered from periods of manic highs and depressive lows for many years. During one particular instance reported by The Express, Kidder once caused "the most public freak out in history" when she went missing for several days.

Thanks to a computer virus that destroyed the memoir she had been writing, Kidder became convinced her husband and the CIA were responsible.

She was found safe and sound some days later and later discussed the incident openly and with characteristic wit in her mission to bring mental health issues to the public attention.

Known as the original and best Lois Lane, tributes have poured in from actors, actresses and directors she worked with over the years on Twitter.

Fellow Superman, Dean Cain also tweeted his tribute to his friend of forty years.

The Telegraph wrote that following Reeve's tragic accident and sad death in 2004, Kidder paid tribute to her Superman by saying "I am just heartbroken and so sad.

I just don't know what to say right now. He grew into such a glorious example of triumph over everything." Many fans feel that Reeve and Kidder made a formidable team and the ultimate Superman/Lane combo.

Kidder is survived by her daughter, Maggie, and her two cherished grandchildren.
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