Among his many attributes, Superman has long served as a symbol of hope, largely because of his unwavering optimism.
Now, former Superman actor Dean Cain is expressing optimism that Hollywood is finally moving away from the “woke” era that alienated audiences and damaged the entertainment industry.
Cain, best known for starring in the ABC series Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, discussed the state of Hollywood during a recent interview with Fox News Digital.
Dean Cain Says Hollywood Is “Dying”
The actor argued that Hollywood has changed dramatically since he began his career. At the time, television and film were treated as largely separate industries. However, the rise of streaming platforms, independent productions, and alternative distribution methods has reshaped the entertainment business.
Cain believes Hollywood’s embrace of progressive politics accelerated the industry’s decline.
“But it’s changed in that it has become very woke in that sense,” Cain said. “It’s hurt the box office. Hollywood’s dying.”
Dean Cain as Superman in Lois & Clark – HBO Max
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Cain pointed to the growing number of productions taking place outside California. He recently filmed projects in Alabama and Texas after leaving the Golden State three years ago.
The actor said smaller independent films now have more opportunities to reach viewers through the growing number outlets for distribution. While the industry remains in a period of transition, Cain expressed optimism about its current direction.
Hollywood Is Emerging From Its “Woke” Era
“Right now, I like the direction it’s in, because I think we’re coming out of the woke epic, if you will,” Cain said. “And we’ll look back at this time and go, that was stupid. I hope we do.”
The actor’s comments come amid a summer in which several films containing elements that critics describe as “woke” have struggled at the box office. Hollywood companies have long faced criticism for prioritizing political messaging over entertainment.
Dean Cain poses while dressing as Superman with his son – X, @RealDeanCain
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Meanwhile, films focused on entertainment, heroic virtues such as self-sacrifice, and life-affirming themes have attracted repeat business.
Superman Represents Small-Town American Values
Cain suggested that Superman, one of the most enduring characters in popular culture, was created from a uniquely American perspective. He described the superhero as a symbol of hope shaped by the small-town values instilled in him by Jonathan and Martha Kent.
“At the time, he was supposed to be the best part of America. He was hope. He was raised by a small-town couple with small-town American values, and that’s why he was the most moral guy on the planet,” Cain said.
The actor made no attempt to hide where he stands.
Dean Cain as Superman – YouTube, Dean Cain Gallery
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“There’s other versions of Superman where he was raised in Soviet Russia, and became this horrible, awful thing. And there’s other versions that have him as sort of a Jesus figure,” Cain said. “I like the idea of him being raised with small-town American values because I happen to think they’re the best.”
Could Dean Cain Enter Politics?
Cain has been approached about running for the Senate or governor in Nevada, but he said he has no desire to become a career politician. However, he would consider seeking public office if he believed he could improve the state.
“If I feel like I can help people, I think that should be the metric for why people get into politics. Unfortunately, I think they get into politics for power, for money, and for prestige. I don’t need any of those things,” Cain observed.
Whether Hollywood has truly abandoned its “woke” era remains debatable. However, Cain believes shifting audience preferences and growing financial pressure are forcing studios to reconsider the priorities that defined the entertainment industry over the past decade.
Do you agree with Dean Cain that Hollywood’s woke era is ending? Sound off and let us know!
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