Judy Nugent, best known to Superman fans for her role as a young girl who embarks on a heartwarming adventure around the world in the company of the Man of Steel in an episode of the “Adventures of Superman” TV series, has passed away at the age of 83.
Nugent passed away on Thursday, surrounded by her family at her Montana ranch following a brief battle with cancer, as confirmed in a statement provided by her daughter-in-law and actress Anne Lockhart.
Nugent is perhaps most famous for her portrayal of Ann Carson, a visually impaired girl who wins a Daily Planet contest during the episode titled “Around The World With Superman.” This episode originally aired on March 13, 1954, serving as the second-season finale and the final black-and-white installment of the syndicated series.
After a medical procedure restores her vision – with Superman (played by George Reeves) having identified a piece of glass near her optic nerve – Ann enjoys a breathtaking perspective of the world as she soars through the skies with the Man of Steel.
Reflecting on this experience in an interview with Western Clippings, Nugent revealed, “That was top secret. I was told never to tell anyone about how George Reeves flew. Anyway, they put George on this cement thing and dressed him over it, form-fitting up to his chest. They had a huge fan that made his cape fly out. The special effects people did the ups and downs. There was a ladder underneath – I’d sit on the ladder and he’d hold me up. Even though I was still little, I got awfully heavy.”
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
That episode was emotional, yet charming at the same time. RIP Judy…George Reeves and the rest of the cast await you.