Anthony Carrigan Reflects on Christopher Reeve's Impact Amid Alopecia

In a heartfelt interview with "Good Morning America" on July 8, 2025, actor Anthony Carrigan, best known for his portrayal of Metamorpho in the highly anticipated James Gunn-directed film "Superman," shared his personal journey with alopecia and how legendary actor Christopher Reeve inspired him to embrace his condition. Carrigan, who was diagnosed with alopecia areata as a child, remarked on the significance of Reeve’s legacy in helping him navigate his own challenges with hair loss.

"When I was a kid, my mom told me about all of these actors and people who had alopecia, and she told me about Christopher Reeve," Carrigan stated at the film's premiere held at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, California. He added, "That was really special, because I really figured, well, if Superman could have alopecia, then I can have alopecia."

Christopher Reeve, who famously brought Superman to life in the 1978 film and its sequels, faced his own battle with alopecia areata, a condition that causes hair loss. Reeve discussed his experiences candidly in interviews and his autobiography, "Still Me," published in 1998. His openness about the condition serves as a beacon of hope for many, including Carrigan, who described knowing about Reeve’s struggles as a significant part of his childhood.

Alopecia is a term encompassing various forms of hair loss, which can stem from autoimmune responses that target hair follicles. According to the National Institutes of Health, while there is currently no cure for alopecia, various treatments, including immunotherapy and steroid therapies, are available. These treatments aim to mitigate the effects of the disease, which can profoundly impact emotional well-being.

Carrigan's connection to his role in "Superman" deepens as he reflects on the influence of Reeve. He expressed, "Knowing that I’m now part of ‘Superman,’ I’m now part of this legacy." In the film, Carrigan plays Rex Mason, also known as Metamorpho, a character blessed with the ability to manipulate his physical form. He shared, "He does not like the way that he looks, which I can certainly relate to. You know, growing up with alopecia, that was something that I wished that I could change about myself back then."

In his portrayal of Metamorpho, Carrigan finds a personal connection, as the character’s struggles with identity and self-acceptance mirror his own experiences with alopecia. "It really affected my self-esteem. It affected the way that I moved through the world," he explained. However, he has since turned his condition into a source of strength, viewing his unique appearance as a superpower.

As audiences anticipate the film's release on July 11, Carrigan hopes that viewers will take away messages of joy, hope, and the importance of humanity. "I think getting in touch with your humanity too, because it’s in short supply these days. We need movies like this that are going to inspire hope and inspire us to do good in the world," he commented.

The cast of "Superman" also features David Corenswet as Clark Kent, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, among others. The film, which promises to blend action with significant emotional themes, aims to resonate with audiences on multiple levels, particularly through Carrigan's unique portrayal of Metamorpho.

As the film nears its debut, Carrigan's reflections on Christopher Reeve serve not only as a tribute to the late actor but also as a testament to the power of representation in media. His journey highlights the importance of visibility for those living with alopecia, encouraging acceptance and understanding within a broader cultural context.