Dean George Tanaka, born on July 31, 1966, is an accomplished American actor who has made a lasting impact in the entertainment industry. His early life was marked by a significant change when his mother, actress Sharon Thomas, married his adoptive father, director Christopher Cain, when Dean was just three years old.
Growing up in Malibu, California, Dean attended Santa Monica High School, where he developed a passion for professional football, which initially seemed to be his career path of choice. However, his academic pursuits at Princeton University led him to complete a degree in history, and he also found time to date actress Brooke Shields for two years. During his time at Princeton, Dean set an NCAA record for interceptions in a season, showcasing his athletic prowess.
Although he had already signed with the Buffalo Bills, a knee injury cut short his professional football career before it could begin. Undeterred, Dean turned his attention to acting, starting with small roles in commercials and television shows, including a notable appearance in "Beverly Hills, 90210" in 1990.
Dean's big break came when he landed the iconic role of Superman/Clark Kent in the popular television series "Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman" in 1993. This role not only cemented his status as a household name but also marked the beginning of a long and successful career in Hollywood.
