Dean Cain, the actor who soared to fame in the 1990s as Clark Kent in Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, is making headlines again—this time for trading in the cape for a badge. The 59-year-old actor has announced he’s joining U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as an honorary agent, calling the decision a matter of patriotism and public service.
Cain revealed his plans in a social media video that had all the flair of a recruitment ad. “I am a sworn law enforcement officer,” he said, “and I felt it was important to join with our first responders to help secure the safety of all Americans—not just talk about it.” He confirmed on Jesse Watters Primetime that he’s already spoken with ICE leadership and will be sworn in “ASAP.” ICE officials later clarified it will be an honorary position, part of the agency’s broader recruitment push under the Trump administration.
The move has sparked a firestorm of reaction. Supporters applaud Cain’s decision as a show of solidarity with law enforcement, while critics say it clashes with Superman’s legacy of hope and compassion. Comedian John Leguizamo called Cain a “loser” and joked his pronouns should be “has/been.” Bill Maher quipped that Cain might be more interested in attention than duty, and John Oliver mocked ICE’s recruitment of celebrities as a sign of desperation.
Cain, whose Japanese-American grandparents were interned during World War II, has faced questions about the irony of his choice. He responded by saying he loves America “despite its past mistakes” and believes strongly in law and order.
Whether fans see this as a heroic stand or a controversial misstep, one thing’s certain—Dean Cain is once again stepping into the spotlight, only this time, the uniform won’t come with a cape.
What do you think—does Cain’s decision make him a real-life hero, or is it a role better left off-screen?
