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Dean Cain, best known for his role as Superman in the beloved 90s series Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, recently stirred up a debate about the direction of the iconic superhero. Cain told TMZ he understands why some fans feel the new Superman, as portrayed by David Corenswet in James Gunn’s upcoming film, is “too woke.” However, the internet swiftly responded, unearthing a resurfaced clip from Lois & Clark that casts serious doubt on Cain’s claims.

The clip, which has gone viral across social media platforms, features Cain's Superman character actively advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and equality – a storyline that directly challenges his recent criticisms of the new Superman’s perceived “wokeness.” The episode, titled “Homecoming,” saw Superman publicly supporting a gay student facing discrimination, a moment that resonated deeply with audiences at the time and showcased a progressive stance for a superhero character in the 90s.

The swift online reaction has been brutal, with many pointing out the hypocrisy in Cain’s comments. Social media users are accusing him of conveniently forgetting the progressive themes explored in Lois & Clark, a show that often tackled social issues and championed inclusivity. The hashtag #DeanCainForgets is trending, accompanied by numerous memes and commentary highlighting the contradiction.

James Gunn's Superman film, starring David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan, has already faced scrutiny from some corners for its diverse casting and inclusion of themes related to social justice. Gunn has been vocal about his intention to create a Superman who reflects the complexities of the modern world. Cain's comments, and the subsequent resurfacing of the Lois & Clark clip, add another layer of complexity to the ongoing debate.

The irony isn't lost on fans. Lois & Clark was groundbreaking for its time, subtly weaving in progressive messages while still maintaining the core values of the Superman character. To now criticize a new iteration for similar themes feels disingenuous to many who remember the show fondly. The clip serves as a powerful reminder that the concept of a “woke” Superman isn’t new, and that Dean Cain himself played a pivotal role in paving the way for it decades ago.

Ultimately, the debate highlights the evolving expectations of superhero narratives and the ongoing conversation surrounding representation and inclusivity in mainstream media. Whether the new Superman will live up to the legacy of its predecessors remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Dean Cain’s comments have inadvertently provided ammunition for his critics and sparked a fascinating discussion about the character's history and future.