Ralph Macchio on Decision to Return to ‘Karate Kid’ Films and Future of the Franchise 40 Years In

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Ralph Macchio is back on the big screen in a Karate Kid film, a place he hasn’t been in 36 years.

Back in the groovy ’80s, I stepped into the dojo as Daniel LaRusso in The Karate Kid, part one, two, and three. I took a break from the action in 1994’s The Next Karate Kid and 2010’s remake, but now I’m back with a bang for six seasons of Cobra Kai! And here I am again, side by side with the legendary Jackie Chan, who graced our screens in the 2010 film, in the latest adventure, Karate Kid: Legends.

After wrapping up the filming for Cobra Kai, I found myself contemplating the prospect of revisiting the world of Karate Kid. After several talks with the studio, I decided to take on the role once more, as I needed to understand where Daniel LaRusso’s story was headed and how he would evolve in this new chapter. It turned out that it had been three years since we last saw him, and his character had grown in a way that made him a stronger, wiser version of himself – almost like a modern-day Miyagi, ready to pass on the martial arts legacy to a youngster in need.

Additionally, there was an attraction in tying his movies with Chan’s, as their characters shared a connection through Mr. Han knowing Daniel LaRusso’s mentor, Mr. Miyagi. This link felt genuine and respected the franchise’s legacy. Macchio added, “It’s another part of the vast universe. This franchise has always managed to get it right when we put in the effort, and I strive to always care for my character and preserve its integrity. I believe I’ve done that again.

Macchio, who confessed to feeling a bit jittery when it came to sparring with someone of Chan’s caliber, shared his thoughts about the future of the Karate Kid series. With Cobra Kai having concluded its run and the films now at number six, he voiced his opinions on where the franchise might head next.

This version maintains the original’s clarity while using more conversational language to make it easier for readers to understand.

The actor expressed, ‘I’m willing to consider it, as long as it remains true to the essence of these characters and their roots. I appreciate the opportunity for future generations to enjoy the happiness we’ve known, even in a world that isn’t always cheerful, and it’s refreshing to share some of that.’

Chan also discussed his experience collaborating with Macchio for the first time, jokingly saying, “When I was young, I used to watch ‘The Karate Kid’ and thought, ‘Why couldn’t it have been me? I could do that too,'” but then received a call from producer Will Smith asking him to play the karate master role alongside Jaden in the 2010 remake a few years later.

Timing was on point – I’ve been yearning for a change, eager to convey that I’m more than an action hero. I aspire to be an acting talent capable of fighting scenes, just like the greats such as Robert De Niro, Dustin Hoffman, and even Stallone. It took a decade to shift people’s perceptions – from seeing me as ‘Jackie, the action star,’ to appreciating me as ‘Jackie, the actor who can fight.’

Even at the age of 71, Jackie Chan prefers to perform his own stunts in fights rather than using a stunt double or special effects, stating, “Whatever I can accomplish, I do it myself. When I was younger, I could execute a triple triple kick, a double double kick; now, if I can manage one kick, I do one kick. I believe the audience wants to see Jackie perform genuine actions.

I’m super excited that I’ll be catching “Karate Kid: Legends” in theaters this Friday! Starring alongside me are Ben Wang, Joshua Jackson, Ming-Na Wen, and Sadie Stanley. Can’t wait to see it with all of you fellow movie enthusiasts!

Neha Joy contributed to this report.

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2025-05-28 21:55