Dean Kane was once a steel guy, but the TV superhero icon has a new title.
According to an August 5 video shared with Cain’s social media channels, Cain, who played Superman in the 1990s series Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, revealed to fans that he had enlisted as an officer in the federal agency’s US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
“For those who don’t know, I’m a sworn law enforcement officer and a filmmaker, and I felt it was important to join with my first responder and not just talk about it, but to ensure the safety of all Americans,” said the 59-year-old. “So I joined.”
USA Today contacted Cain and Ice representatives for comments.
Cain also used the 1.5 minute clip as an informal recruitment ad to promote the “big profits” of working for ice.
“So if you want to help save America, Ice is arresting the worst and removing them from the streets of America. I like that. I voted for it,” Cain said. “They need your help. We need your help, to protect our hometown and our families.”
Cain’s comments come amid the rise in ice scrutiny over the past few months.
Several demonstrations broke out in Los Angeles in response to a series of immigration attacks carried out by federal agencies in June. The attack that sparked nationwide protests was made as part of an order from President Donald Trump to find immigrants living in the United States without legal status.
Celebrities such as Jimmy Kimmel, Kim Kardashian, Cardi B and Mark Ruffalo have opposed the ice attack and the involvement of the Trump administration.
Cain portrayed the legendary Clark Kent from DC Comics and his superhero alias, Superman, in “Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman” from 1993 to 1997. ABC Dramedy, starring Teri Hatcher and Lane Smith, also won five Primetime Emmy nominations during their four years of running.
Dean Kane’s ice video causes backlash from fans
Cain’s announcement of his ice employment did not sit well with some fans. Fans were taking them to the comments section of Instagram to share their disappointment at the actor’s affiliation with the controversial institution.
“Dean’s shame – that’s the most non-superman thing you could probably advocate,” writes @supergirl_titans.
“You are a very big disappointment and just bring shame to the Red Cape.
“It’s a free country,” said @gomdiaz, but the user added:
Despite criticism, some fans came to Cain’s defense. “Wow, you’re really Superman – that’s so cool!!!” wrote @jmcmahon0278, but @anthonyhershko commented:
Meanwhile, user @jlenagha pointed out the irony of Cain’s professional relationship with Ice, given the actor’s Japanese heritage (Cain was born in Michigan, but his biological father is in Japanese).
“Immigrants coming to this country should be given a legitimate process, whether undocumented or not,” the user added. “Trump said he’s chasing gang members, criminals, etc. It wasn’t. He’s chasing normal people. This hurts Dean’s views. I was shocked that he’s supporting the ice.”
