Nicolas Cage, born Nicolas Kim Coppola on January 7, 1964, in Long Beach, California, is a legendary actor known for his eclectic roles and dynamic screen presence. He is the son of August Coppola, a professor of literature, and Joy Vogelsang, a choreographer and dancer.
Cage grew up in a family deeply immersed in the arts; his uncle is the esteemed filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, which gave him early exposure to the entertainment world. Determined to carve his own path, he adopted the stage name “Cage” to avoid accusations of nepotism, drawing inspiration from comic book hero Luke Cage and avant-garde composer John Cage.
Cage’s childhood was marked by a fascination with cinema and performance, leading him to attend Beverly Hills High School, known for its robust performing arts program. He later pursued formal training at UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television. From an early age, Cage demonstrated a unique energy and ambition, which would define his career.
His breakout role came in Valley Girl (1983), a quirky romantic comedy that showcased his unconventional charisma. Over the decades, Cage built a reputation for taking on diverse and challenging roles. He earned an Academy Award for Best Actor for his searing performance in Leaving Las Vegas (1995) and delivered memorable performances in films such as Moonstruck (1987), The Rock (1996), Face/Off (1997), and Adaptation (2002), the latter earning him another Oscar nomination.
Cage is also recognized for his work in action films and franchises, including National Treasure (2004) and its sequel. Despite a career filled with commercial highs and lows, Cage’s ability to reinvent himself has made him a cult icon.
Standing 6 feet (1.83 meters) tall and weighing approximately 200 pounds (91 kilograms), Cage has a commanding presence that has served him well in both dramatic and action-oriented roles. His signature intensity and willingness to immerse himself in roles have made him one of the most distinctive actors of his generation.
Cage’s personal life has been as colorful as his filmography. He is currently married to Riko Shibata, whom he wed in 2021. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named August, in 2022. Cage also has two sons: Weston Coppola Cage, from his relationship with Christina Fulton, and Kal-El Coppola Cage, from his marriage to Alice Kim. The family primarily resides in Las Vegas, Nevada, a city Cage has described as creatively inspiring.
Among his close friends are Johnny Depp, with whom he has shared a long-standing friendship; Sean Penn, a peer from his early career; and Elijah Wood, his co-star in The Trust (2016). These relationships underscore Cage’s connections within Hollywood’s elite, as well as his ability to forge bonds through shared artistry.
With an estimated net worth of $25 million, Cage has faced financial ups and downs, including high-profile investments in real estate and collectibles. Despite this, his prolific output and undeniable talent continue to secure him a prominent place in the industry.
Cage remains an enigmatic figure, celebrated for his fearless approach to acting and his dedication to pushing artistic boundaries. His legacy as one of Hollywood’s most unforgettable talents endures, bolstered by a career defined by passion, versatility, and a singular vision.
