Nicolas Cage Says Son Kal-El Was Not Named After Superman Despite Comic Book Connection

Nicolas Cage says his son Kal-El was not named after Superman, despite the strong connection many people make.

In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Cage explained that he chose the name because he believes it is a Hebrew name meaning “Voice of God” and thought it sounded beautiful. His son, Kal-El, who was born in 2005, reportedly likes his name.

The explanation has drawn attention because Cage is a longtime comic book fan and was once set to play Superman in Tim Burton’s canceled film Superman Lives. Although the movie never went into production, footage of Cage wearing a Superman costume later surfaced online. He also appeared briefly as a version of Superman in 2023’s The Flash.

Cage has previously shown his love of comics in other ways. He changed his surname from Coppola to Cage, partly inspired by Marvel character Luke Cage, while also appreciating the connection to avant-garde composer John Cage.

The actor is currently starring in Prime Video’s Spider-Noir, playing an older alternate version of Spider-Man.