Dean Cain, known for playing Superman in the 1990s series Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, has revealed he is now a sworn officer with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The announcement came in an Aug. 5 video shared on his social media, where he explained his decision to serve.

“For those who don’t know, I am a sworn law enforcement officer, as well as being a filmmaker, and I felt it was important to join with our first responders to help secure the safety of all Americans, not just talk about it,” Cain, 59, said. “So, I joined up.”

He used the video as both an announcement and a recruitment pitch, encouraging others to consider joining ICE. Cain highlighted incentives including a $50,000 signing bonus, student loan repayment, enhanced retirement benefits, and additional pay for roles in law enforcement and field operations.

“So, if you want to help save America, ICE is arresting the worst of the worst and removing them from America’s streets. I like that. I voted for that,” he added. “They need your help. We need your help, to protect our homeland and our families.”

ICE involvement draws criticism and celebrity backlash

Dean Cain ICE
Dean Cain delivers remarks at a ceremony in Los Angeles on Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, celebrating Mehmet Oz—former host of “The Dr. Oz Show”—as he receives a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The timing of Cain’s announcement coincides with renewed scrutiny of ICE. In June, protests broke out in Los Angeles following a wave of immigration raids conducted under directives from President Donald Trump. These operations, which targeted undocumented immigrants, also sparked nationwide protests.

Several celebrities, including Jimmy Kimmel, Kim Kardashian, Cardi B, and Mark Ruffalo, have criticized both ICE and the Trump administration’s immigration policies.

Cain’s past as Superman, a character known for championing justice and compassion, has prompted some fans to express disappointment over his new role. During his four-season run on Lois & Clark, the ABC dramedy earned five Emmy nominations and cemented Cain’s place in pop culture.

Fans react to Cain’s affiliation with ICE

Reactions to Cain’s announcement have been mixed. On Instagram, some fans expressed disapproval. “Shame on you Dean — that’s the most un-Superman thing you could possibly advocate,” wrote @supergirl_titans. Another comment from @imaginairycloud said, “You are such a massive disappointment and only bring shame to the red cape.”

@gomdiaz commented, “I hope one (day) I’ll understand how a person can watch the now standard footage of HOW they ‘handle’ human beings and not only not be sad and morally disgusted but also promote it.”

Other users supported Cain’s decision. “Wow, you really are Superman – that is so cool!!!” wrote @jmcmahon0278. Another added, “LEGEND!!!!!!!!!👏🫡”

One user, @jlenagha, called attention to the irony of Cain’s Japanese heritage in light of his endorsement of ICE policies. Cain was born in Michigan, and his biological father is Japanese.

“Immigrants that come to this country, whether they’re undocumented or not, should be given due process,” the user wrote. “Trump said he was going after gang members, criminals etc. That’s not been the case. He’s been going after regular people. This tarnishes my view of Dean. I’m shocked he’s endorsing ICE.”