Actor Dean Cain believes the entertainment industry is moving away from what he describes as the "woke era," a shift he feels is a positive change and will ultimately be viewed as misguided.
"Right now, I like the direction it's in, because I think we're coming out of the woke [era], if you will," Cain told Fox News in a recent interview. "And we'll look back at this time and go, that was stupid. I hope we do."
Cain, known for his role as Superman in "Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman," suggested that the industry's focus on certain values has negatively impacted box office performance. He also noted significant changes in the traditional Hollywood star system and the geographic concentration of the industry.
"Hollywood's kind of died," Cain stated, reflecting on his early career. He recalled his father, a film director, advising him that actors had to choose between television or film. That distinction, he noted, has blurred, with pathways to stardom evolving over time.
Cain also cited the decentralization of film and television production, with opportunities now available in various locations. "I left Hollywood three years ago," he said. "Nobody lives in California anymore. Everybody leaves." Cain has recently filmed projects in Alabama and Texas, contrasting with his last film shot in California.
He attributed his departure from California to political and economic factors. "The reason I left California was politics," Cain explained. "It was the horrible regulations, the onerous taxes, it was insane. California … I could see it going off a cliff."
Cain and his parents relocated to Nevada, where he found lower living costs and no state income tax. He described Nevada as a vibrant hub for entertainment and sports, with a growing film industry.
"It's the entertainment capital of the world, there's sports, there are concerts, there is everything in the world here. I love it. And there's a film industry here as well," Cain said.
Cain, who has publicly supported conservative causes and even joined ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) earlier in the year, has been approached about political office in Nevada, including runs for the Senate and governorship. He stated that his potential entry into politics would be driven by a desire to improve the state and country, rather than for personal gain.
"If I think I can make Nevada better, perhaps I'll do it. If I thought I could come in, do some good for this state of Nevada and for this country, I would do it and get out," Cain commented. He expressed skepticism about the motivations of many politicians, suggesting they often seek power, money, and prestige, qualities he feels he does not require.