Dean Cain’s ICE Move Ignites Firestorm After “Woke Superman” Criticism

The actor who once soared as television’s Superman now finds himself at the center of a real-world maelstrom. Dean Cain, famed for his 1990s role in Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, faces intense backlash after announcing he’ll join U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)—weeks after condemning James Gunn’s upcoming Superman film as “too woke” for depicting the hero as an immigrant.

Cain’s ICE Commitment and Political Stance

On August 6, Cain declared on Fox News that he’d be sworn into ICE “ASAP,” inspired by posting one of the agency’s recruitment videos. “Our ICE agents are amazing men and women… a cross-section of Americans,” he told host Jesse Watters, referencing his existing law enforcement credentials as a reserve police officer. Cain framed his decision as patriotic, arguing America’s immigration system is “broken” and praising former President Donald Trump’s enforcement policies. “This country was built on patriots stepping up… I truly believe this is the right thing,” he stated, aligning his move with Trump’s campaign promises.

ICE’s recent operations—bolstered by $75 billion in new funding—target up to 3,000 arrests daily, impacting undocumented immigrants, protected-status residents, and even U.S. citizens. These raids have sparked nationwide protests, including activists like “Angie the ICE Chaser” who intervenes during operations in Southern California. Cain’s endorsement places him directly at odds with these efforts.

Social Media Erupts Over “Superman” Irony

Cain’s announcement ignited immediate criticism online, with many highlighting the dissonance between his new role and Superman’s legacy. In July, Cain had criticized Gunn’s portrayal of Superman’s immigrant origins (“the story of America”), warning it would hurt box office numbers. Fans swiftly countered that Superman’s progressive values—including his immigrant identity—have defined the character since his 1938 creation, including during Cain’s own tenure.

Comedian Margaret Cho blasted Cain on TikTok: “I know you, and you are not white. You have never been white… Always ‘wong,’ never white.” Former Glee star Kevin McHale tweeted: “Imagine being so out of work and desperate for attention that you join ICE? F*cking pathetic loser.” Others mocked the move as “cosplay,” with user @Jane_Doe82 posting a Superman GIF alongside the jab: “They all think they look like this rounding people up at Home Depot.”

Cain’s journey from embodying an immigrant hero to enforcing divisive immigration policies underscores America’s polarized landscape. His ICE role amplifies critiques that he’s weaponizing Superman’s legacy against the very communities the hero champions. For balanced reporting on evolving policies, follow trusted immigration watchdogs.

Must Know

Why did Dean Cain criticize the new Superman movie?
Cain called James Gunn’s Superman “too woke” in July 2025 for emphasizing the character’s immigrant origins. He argued this framing was a “mistake” that could alienate audiences, despite Superman’s immigrant narrative being core to his comics history since 1938.

What is Dean Cain’s role in ICE?
Cain stated on Fox News (August 6, 2025) he’ll serve as a sworn agent, leveraging his background as a reserve police officer. He’ll support ICE’s escalated operations targeting thousands of daily arrests under current enforcement priorities.

How does Superman’s origin relate to immigration?
Superman’s story—escaping Krypton’s destruction to build a life on Earth—parallels immigrant experiences. Creator Jerry Siegel and DC Comics consistently framed him as a “stranger in a strange land,” a theme explored in academic studies like Superman: The Unauthorized Biography (Glen Weldon, 2013).

What sparked the backlash against Cain?
Critics highlight the irony of Cain joining ICE after playing an immigrant superhero. Many note ICE’s controversial tactics, including separating families and detaining citizens, as reported by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) in 2024.