Its not all celebs who get the exposure when they die.... I bet at least 20 or more have died in the last year that you dont hear about.... But a few rise to the top that effect alot of peoples lives.
In this case he was a survivor.... he became famous because of his role as Superman but he will be remembered as the man who never gave up fighting after his horrible accident.
I was never a big fan of his acting.... but I became a big fan of the man and his spirit and will to get better from his accident....