Decision That Damaged “Superman” Star, Dean Cain’s Acting Career, Became the Best Part of His Life

Dean Cain, widely recognized as “Superman” from the beloved 1993 series Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, had a remarkable role off-screen as well — that of a Super Dad. Beyond his iconic role in the world of entertainment, Dean Cain made numerous personal sacrifices during his son’s formative years. He willingly declined numerous leading roles, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to giving his undivided attention to the upbringing of his child.

He experienced a rough childhood.

Although he would eventually become a world-renowned star, Dean Cain experienced a tough childhood. Born to actors Sharon Tanaka and Roger Tanaka in 1966, the boy and his mother were unfortunately abandoned by his father, and the future actor never got to meet his biological father. But when he was 4, his mother married Christopher Cain. His biological father never got in contact with Cain again.

Dean became a father in 2000.

In June of the year 2000, Dean Cain joyfully welcomed his first child with his then-girlfriend, Samantha Torres. Their union brought forth a son, whom Cain lovingly named after his adoptive father. Regrettably, the connection between Cain and Torres did not stand the test of time, and they went their separate ways in 2003. This separation led to a challenging and protracted custody battle for their beloved son, Christopher. In a testament to his dedication as a father, Dean Cain ultimately gained sole custody of Christopher in 2011.

From that point on, Dean Cain devoted himself wholeheartedly to raising Christopher, striving to be the most present and caring father he could possibly be. He openly expresses his pride in being Christopher’s father, often referring to him as his “favorite human being on the planet.” This deep father-son bond serves as a testament to the enduring love and commitment Dean Cain has to his son.

He raised his son alone and made many sacrifices.

The Superman actor made sure to be there for his son every step of the way, even cooking every meal for him.

He shared, “I cook every meal for my child. If I don’t cook, he doesn’t eat. I cook a very mean steak. I’m also very good at taking the 9 leftovers I have and turning them into something.”

He often takes on the role of chef, playfully teasing that Christopher insists on dining only if his meal is prepared by Dad. “We’ll go to a steak restaurant and sit down and have a steak, and my son will go, ’Dad, your steaks are better!’” the actor says.

Although he continued to act and raise his son alone at the same time, the actor made sure to be there every step of the way. “The last 18 years of my career have been predicated upon being a father first, and an actor second,” Cain shared. He made sure to be present for all his son’s Jujitsu events and was even his football, basketball, and baseball coach.

Cain doesn’t regret his decision.

The actor’s decision to put his career on hold and focus on raising his son has earned him a lot of criticism, but Cain said, “I’m there. I’m a very present father, and I would never do it otherwise.” Even though he is raising his son alone, he doesn’t regret it. “People are, like, ‘Haven’t you been aspiring for anything?’ Yeah, I’ve aspired for a life!”

He continues to work on his career as well.

Cain continued with his career while raising his son, writing for shows like Ripley’s Believe It or Not and Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman. He also went on to appear in movies like The Broken Hearts Club and Out of Time. Now that his son is all grown up, the actor hasn’t wasted time, appearing in TV shows like The Platform and Supergirl.

A father’s love is a timeless and boundless force, an unwavering presence that shapes and nurtures the lives of his children. In every dad’s hug, every word of wisdom, and every sacrifice made, a father’s love echoes, reminding us of its enduring and unconditional nature.