Jackie Chan in Talks for Karate Kid Comeback

Entertainment

| LAST UPDATE 05/18/2023

By Amelie Durham
Jackie Chan Karate Kid
VCG / Contributor via Getty Images

Karate Kid fans, get ready for some thrilling news! The iconic franchise is all set to make a comeback with its own multiverse. A new movie is in the works that seeks to connect the 80s classic with the 2010 remake and if rumors are to be believed, Jackie Chan may reprise his role as Mr. Han in the film. This means that the new movie will bring together both legacies and make for an action-packed experience.

The Karate Kid franchise has had an extensive history with its first installment releasing in 1984. Over the years, the franchise has seen several sequels and a 2010 remake that starred Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan. However, it was the Netflix series, Cobra Kai, that revived the franchise's fortunes when it began airing in 2018 on YouTube Red. The show became a global phenomenon and repositioned the world of Karate Kid at the top of cinematic franchises. While the new movie won't have any connection with Cobra Kai, if Ralph Macchio returns as Daniel Larusso, there will be plenty more to tell about his life. The actor has expressed his desire to develop other projects within the franchise, such as a prequel focused on Mr. Miyagi, the iconic character played by Pat Morita.

Ralph Macchio Pat Morita
Karate Kid (1984) Delphi II Productions via IMDB
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

The Karate Kid franchise has always been a favorite among audiences and critics alike. The first installment grossed $130 million at the box office against a budget of $8 million and received positive reviews. Its reception and good performance allowed it to have a sequel in 1986, and in 1989 a third part with Larusso as the protagonist again. While the fourth part with Hilary Swank as the new apprentice of Mr. Miyagi continues to be widely criticized, it seems that fans would still like to see the character in Cobra Kai.

Cobra Kai also introduced a new generation of protagonists led by Xolo Mariduena, Tanner Buchanan, Jacob Bertrand, Mary Mourser, and Peyton List. The series saw the return of big names in the franchise like Martin Kove, Thomas Ian Griffith, and Yuji Okumoto. The prospect of Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio returning to the Karate Kid universe is sure to excite action movie fans. With the new movie set to connect both legacies and bring together some of the most iconic characters from the franchise, it promises to be an intense and thrilling ride. So, get ready to witness some adrenaline-pumping action on screen!

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below