Quick Wiki
- Full Name Nicolas Kim Coppola
- Birth Date Jan 07, 1964
- Age 61 Years, 2 Months
- Birthplace Long Beach, California, United States
- Occupation Actor and film producer
- Parents August Coppola, Joy Vogelsang
Nicolas Cage | Biography
Nicolas Cage, born Nicolas Kim Coppola, is a prominent actor known for his diverse roles in films like Leaving Las Vegas, Con Air, and National Treasure. He has been married multiple times and has three children.
Who is Nicolas Cage?
Nicolas Cage, born Nicolas Kim Coppola on January 7, 1964, in Long Beach, California, is a celebrated American actor whose passion for the performing arts took root during a summer class at the American Conservatory Theatre in San Francisco. Growing up in a family with deep connections to the film industry—he is the nephew of renowned director Francis Ford Coppola—Cage initially faced the challenge of stepping out of his uncle's shadow and establishing his own identity. To accomplish this, he changed his last name to Cage, drawing inspiration from the superhero Luke Cage, to create a distinct professional persona.
Cage made his acting debut in the 1981 television film "Best of Times," but it was his breakout role in the 1982 teen comedy "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" that propelled him into the spotlight. Throughout the years, he has showcased his versatility in a range of genres, from comedies like "Raising Arizona" and romantic dramas like "Moonstruck," to intense thrillers such as "Leaving Las Vegas," for which he earned an Academy Award for Best Actor. His distinctive method acting style and intense dedication to roles have made Cage a highly respected figure in the film industry, ensuring his legacy endures through a rich filmography.
Early Life and Education
Nicolas Cage, born Nicolas Kim Coppola on January 7, 1964, in Long Beach, California, grew up in a creative environment that fostered his love for the arts. His mother, Joy Vogelsang, was a choreographer, while his father, August Coppola, was a literature professor. The nephew of famed director Francis Ford Coppola, Cage often visited his uncle, which deepened his interest in filmmaking and acting. Growing up in a family with deep ties to the entertainment industry, he was naturally inclined toward pursuing a career on screen.
At the age of 15, Cage discovered his passion for acting during a summer class at the American Conservatory Theatre in San Francisco. This newfound enthusiasm led him to drop out of Beverly Hills High School to fully dedicate himself to acting. In an effort to carve out his own identity and separate himself from his uncle's fame, he adopted the stage name Nicolas Cage, inspired by the superhero Luke Cage. This early commitment to acting opened doors for him, allowing him to make his television debut in 1981 and set the foundation for a successful cinematic career.
Career Beginnings in Teenage Comedies
Nicolas Cage, originally known as Nicolas Kim Coppola, embarked on his acting career with a solid foundation in teenage comedies that would pave the way for his diverse film roles later on. He first appeared in the 1982 film "Fast Times at Ridgemont High", a seminal teen classic that showcased the ups and downs of high school life. His quirky performance caught the attention of audiences and filmmakers alike, marking the beginning of his journey in the film industry. Following this, Cage starred in "Valley Girl" (1983), where he played a punk rocker, further solidifying his reputation as a unique talent in the realm of youthful comedies.
Building on his early success, Cage attracted critical acclaim with his role in "Rumble Fish" (1983), directed by his uncle Francis Ford Coppola. This early experience provided him with the opportunity to blend both mainstream appeal and artistic depth. Cage's ability to take on distinctive roles set him apart from his peers, leading to a series of standout performances. Notable projects like "Birdy" (1984) and "Peggy Sue Got Married" (1986) showcased his versatility, allowing him to transition from comedy to more serious dramatic roles while maintaining his eccentric style, which would define his career in Hollywood.
Oscar for Leaving Las Vegas
Nicolas Cage achieved significant acclaim for his exceptional performance in the 1995 film "Leaving Las Vegas," directed by Mike Figgis. In this poignant drama, Cage portrayed Ben Sanderson, a desperate alcoholic screenwriter who moves to Las Vegas with the intent of drinking himself to death. His commitment to the role was evident, as he embraced the complexity of his character with remarkable depth. The film's raw and visceral portrayal of addiction captivated audiences and critics alike, allowing Cage to shine as a serious actor distinct from his teenage comedy roots.
Cage's performance earned him multiple accolades, including the coveted Academy Award for Best Actor and a Golden Globe. This recognition marked a turning point in his career, solidifying his status as a leading figure in Hollywood. By accepting only $240,000 for the role during a time when he was valued at about $4 million per film, Cage demonstrated his willingness to embody powerful narratives over commercial success. "Leaving Las Vegas" not only showcased his talent but also set the stage for a diverse and prolific career filled with action thrillers and romantic dramas.
Iconic Action Films and Awards
Nicolas Cage, an iconic figure in Hollywood, is renowned for his thrilling performances in action films and his impressive range as an actor. He rose to fame in the mid-1980s with standout roles in movies like “Raising Arizona” and “Moonstruck,” but it was his gripping portrayal in “Leaving Las Vegas” that earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor in 1996. Cage is particularly recognized for his commitment to method acting, immersing himself in roles that often demand a significant physical and emotional transformation. This dedication enhances the authenticity of his performances, solidifying his status as a formidable force in the film industry.
Throughout his career, Cage has starred in a multitude of high-octane action films, solidifying his legacy as an action star. Films such as “The Rock,” “Con Air,” and “Face/Off” not only showcased his versatility but also captured audiences with their gripping narratives and intense performances. Cage has often gravitated towards characters that grapple with moral dilemmas, which adds depth to his action-oriented films. His ability to blend drama with the adrenaline of action has not only garnered him critical acclaim but has also endeared him to a diverse fanbase. With a career spanning decades, Cage continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of cinema, balancing his achievements in action with an array of genres.
Personal Life: Marriages and Children
Nicolas Cage's personal life has been as dynamic and complex as his film career. He has been married five times, with his first marriage to actress Patricia Arquette in 1995. The couple shared a passionate relationship, but ultimately parted ways in 2001. Cage's next notable marriage was to Lisa Marie Presley, the daughter of Elvis Presley. Their whirlwind romance took place in August 2002 but ended after just 108 days, officially concluding in 2004.
Following his brief marriage to Presley, Cage married Alice Kim in 2004. Kim was 20 years his junior, and together they welcomed a son, Kal-el Coppola Cage, in October 2005. Their union lasted for 12 years before they separated in 2016. In March 2019, Cage had a short-lived marriage to Erika Koike, which ended in annulment just four days later. He found love again when he married Riko Shibata in February 2021, and they welcomed a daughter, August, in September 2022, marking a new chapter in Cage's life as he balances family alongside his illustrious film career.
Net Worth and Earnings: Salary Details
Nicolas Cage, renowned for his eclectic film roles and intense acting style, has had quite a remarkable journey in the film industry, translating into substantial financial success. As of 2023, Cage's net worth is estimated to be around $25 million. This figure is significantly lower than some of his contemporaries, largely due to his extravagant lifestyle choices over the years. Despite earning millions through his films, including blockbuster hits like "The Rock" and "National Treasure," Cage has faced financial challenges, resulting in the sale of numerous properties and assets to manage his debts.
Cage's earnings per film have varied considerably throughout his career. At his peak, he reportedly commanded upwards of $20 million per movie, particularly during the late '90s and early 2000s. For instance, his role in the action-thriller "Gone in 60 Seconds" came with a hefty $20 million paycheck. Nevertheless, during less lucrative years, Cage remarkably accepted lower salaries, such as the $240,000 fee for his Oscar-winning performance in "Leaving Las Vegas." This willingness to take significant pay cuts for passion projects reflects both his dedication to the craft and his occasional financial struggles, contributing to the dynamic narrative of Nicolas Cage's career.
