Dean Cain, the face behind TV's Superman, is stirring the Hollywood pot with his bold prediction: the 'woke' era is on its way out. Cain, who ditched the California scene for Nevada three years ago, believes the industry's creativity and box-office performance have taken a hit. He's optimistic about a major shift towards indie films, streaming platforms, and ventures beyond Los Angeles. In a candid chat with Fox News, Cain stated his hope for a future reflection on this 'woke' phase.
“Right now, I like the direction it's in, because I think we're coming out of the woke [era], if you will. And we'll look back at this time and go, that was stupid. I hope we do," he said.
Cain's take isn't bolstered by pointing fingers at specific films or fiscal stats. Instead, he attributes Hollywood's recent challenges to ideological storytelling, amidst other factors like the pandemic, labor strikes, and shifting viewer habits.
Frustration drove Cain from California to Nevada, as the actor criticized the state's policies and high costs. Embracing Nevada's vibrant mix of entertainment, sports, and a budding film industry, Cain feels at home. "It's the entertainment capital of the world," he gushed, noting the state's appeal for professionals exploring filmmaking outside the LA bubble.
Cain's career has increasingly taken him to burgeoning production hubs like Georgia, Texas, and Alabama, where he finds more freedom in the indie film scene. "I just shot a movie in Alabama, I just got back from a movie in Texas. You know, it's everywhere else. Hollywood's behind the curve," he wittily remarked.
The former 'Lois & Clark' star sees a seismic shift in how actors reach audiences today. Streaming services have reshaped the game, providing alternatives to traditional Hollywood studios. Reflecting on his father's advice, Cain noted the once-strict division between TV and film has evaporated.
"Then there was a time where you had to be a television actor to become a film actor," Cain mused, referencing stars like George Clooney and Johnny Depp. The Kardashian phenomenon, he suggested, further illustrates this transformation, offering provocative takes on fame's changing pathways.
For today's creators, digital platforms offer unprecedented freedom to cater to audiences overlooked by conventional Hollywood.
Adding to his Hollywood critiques, Cain's foray into conservative politics has made waves. Sworn in as an honorary ICE agent by late 2025, Cain's commitment to "truth, justice, and the American way" was clear during his CPAC Texas speech. He linked his support for law enforcement to combating 'defund' movements, asserting, "When extremists on the left screamed, 'defund the police,' I joined law enforcement."
Cain underscores his vision for the country—merit-based and devoid of divisive ideologies like DEI and CRT. "No men in women's sports," he proclaimed, standing firm on his beliefs.
Political whispers surround Cain, as calls grow for him to run in Nevada. Though no campaign has been announced, Cain's discussions with Governor Joe Lombardo hint at political aspirations. "If I think I can make Nevada better, perhaps I'll do it," he shared, emphasizing service over power.
Cain insists any political venture would be for genuine impact, not personal gain. "If I feel like I can help people, I think that should be the metric for why people get into politics," he said. With his move to Nevada, ICE role, and conservative convention presence, Cain might be stepping into a future far from the glitz of Hollywood.