Nicolas Cage has always been a subject of intrigue, not just because of his brilliant acting talent but also because of his eccentric and often bizarre real-life experiences. This article delves into some of the most eccentric and strange events surrounding the life of the Hollywood icon. Known for his intense performances, Cage has shown that his life off-screen can be just as unpredictable as his characters.
Let’s take a deeper look at the bizarre facts that define the legendary Nicolas Cage.
A Night in Dracula’s Castle
While filming Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance in Romania, Cage chose to spend a night at Bran Castle, often associated with the legend of Dracula. In a tale shared by co-star Idris Elba, Cage recounted how he stayed overnight in the eerie castle to “channel the energy.”
Situated in the Transylvanian mountains, Bran Castle is famously associated with Dracula’s residence in Bram Stoker’s Dracula novel, making it the perfect setting for an actor seeking to tap into something spooky.
Cage Surprises Fans at the Nicolas Cage Film Festival
Cage has long been a fan favorite for his quirky and memorable roles in films like National Treasure and Face/Off. So, when the annual Nicolas Cage Film Festival took place at the Alamo Drafthouse in Austin, Texas, it was no surprise that fans were eager for him to attend. In 2017, Cage made a surprise appearance at the festival, delighting attendees.
He even read Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart” aloud and led a lively Q&A session. His presence at the festival reflected his deep connection to his fans, who continue to celebrate his career and larger-than-life persona.
The Infamous Comic Book Heist
Cage’s love for comic books became the center of a thrilling story in 2000 when a rare copy of Action Comics #1, the first appearance of Superman, was stolen from his home. This highly sought-after comic, among other rare editions, vanished in a break-in that went unsolved for over a decade.
In a twist of fate, the comic book reappeared in 2011 in a storage locker in the San Fernando Valley. After a police investigation, the comic was returned to Cage, and he later sold it for a record-breaking $2.1 million, calling it “divine providence.”
The Naked Home Intruder and the Fudgsicle Incident
In one of the most unsettling yet odd experiences, Cage revealed in an interview that he once woke up to find a naked man in his home, eating a Fudgsicle at the foot of his bed. The man, who had broken into Cage’s Orange County home, was calmly indulging in the treat while Cage, rather than reacting with violence, struck up a conversation with him.
This bizarre encounter was only resolved when the police arrived. Cage later described the experience as both horrifying and surreal, but it is a perfect example of the oddities that seem to follow him.
The Mysterious Pyramid Tomb
In 2010, Cage made a purchase that piqued the curiosity of many – a pyramid tomb in New Orleans. This nine-foot-tall pyramid is located in the famed St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, a historic site in the heart of the city. The tomb carries the Latin inscription “Omni Ab Uno”, meaning “Everything From One.”
Cage bought two plots of land here, and while the actor has yet to confirm his intentions, some believe he intends to be laid to rest in this unique structure. Whether this is a morbid joke or a sincere final wish remains a mystery.
The Dinosaur Skull Scandal
In one of the most extravagant purchases of his career, Cage bought a Tyrannosaurus bataar skull at an auction for $276,000 in 2007. However, the actor was later contacted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and informed that the fossil had been stolen from Mongolia’s Gobi Desert. In an unusual turn of events, Cage agreed to return the skull, which was subsequently repatriated.
This episode highlights Cage’s impulsive spending habits and the unpredictable nature of his acquisitions.
The Haunted Mansion
In 2007, Cage purchased the notorious LaLaurie Mansion in New Orleans, which was once home to serial killer Madame Delphine LaLaurie. Given the property’s dark history, Cage believed the mansion would provide perfect inspiration for writing a horror novel. Unfortunately, the mansion was foreclosed in 2009, and Cage never completed the novel.
His fascination with the macabre and his willingness to embrace eerie atmospheres reflect his intense commitment to creativity, albeit in unconventional ways.
Tripping Out on Magic Mushrooms with His Cat
One of Cage’s most bizarre stories involves his cat, Lewis, and a magical experience they shared. Appearing on The Late Show with David Letterman in 2010, Cage recounted how he and his cat partook in a session of magic mushrooms. While lying on his bed, Cage claimed that he and Lewis stared at each other for hours, feeling a deep, almost spiritual connection.
According to Cage, Lewis was not just a pet but his brother, adding yet another layer of eccentricity to the actor’s mystique.
Unauthorized Use of His Likeness on a Japanese Snack
In 2017, Cage’s image was used on a popular Japanese corn snack, Deluxe Umaibou Nicolastick, without his permission. The snack, designed to promote his film Army of One, had Cage’s likeness plastered on its packaging. However, the actor’s representatives confirmed they were unaware of his face being used and had not given consent.
This strange oversight led to an apology from the film’s distributor, FilmNation. Despite this, it only added another bizarre chapter to the actor’s unconventional life.
Conclusion
Nicolas Cage has carved out a reputation for himself that is far from ordinary. From his impulsive, sometimes outrageous purchases to his unorthodox experiences, Cage continues to live a life as intriguing as the characters he portrays on screen. Whether he’s buying a pyramid tomb, staying at Dracula’s castle, or tripping on mushrooms with his cat, Cage’s eccentricities keep fans guessing, fascinated, and coming back for more.
His life, as bizarre as it may seem, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to creativity, authenticity, and the exploration of the unconventional. In a world where celebrities often seem scripted, Cage remains an unpredictable enigma.
