WhileKarate Kid: Legendswill bring together multiple movies within the franchise, original movie star Ralph Macchio has revealed how the movie fit into the wider franchise alongside the events ofCobra Kai. Macchio has been carrying on his iconic role of Daniel LaRusso with Netflix’s sequel show, though was revealed to be starring in the franchise’s nextmovie alongside Jackie Chan from the 2010 reboot. Plot details have remained under wraps, save for the indication that it would returntheKarate Kiduniverseto the East Coast and focus on a new teen protagonist who learns martial arts.
After filming onKarate Kid: Legendsconcluded in June, Macchio shared some much-needed insight into what fans can expect of the movie to attendees of Big Texas Comic-Con, withThe Legacy of Nerdbeing present to capture his response. While Macchio stated that he couldn’t comment on too many details, the actor did affirm that the movie would take place within its own corner of the larger shared universe of the franchise. He did, however,confirm that the film will be set “after the events ofCobra Kai”, going on to invite attendees to tune in for the show’s series finale next year:
Well, I can’t go into any depth on it except it’s another ecosystem within the grand universe ofThe Karate Kid, in the mythology of that, and I’m excited for it. It all happens, the story is after the events of Cobra Kai, so- I- You know, I can’t say a damn thing, but enjoy Cobra Kai, embrace Cobra Kai, make it the biggest series finale in the history of Netflix and television.
What Macchio’s Latest Statement Reveals AboutKarate Kid: Legends
The Show Will Close Out One Era Of Daniel’s Before His Next Chapter Hits Theaters
Though Macchio’s comments have finally affirmed whenKarate Kid: Legendswill take place, there had already been several indicators that hinted when the movie would take place in the series' timeline. While it was one of many movies postponed by Sony in an April 2024 reshuffle of their theatrical release slate, it was stated thatthis move was partially waiting to release afterCobra Kaiseason 6aired.
Karate Kid’s 2025 Movie Faces A Daunting Story Challenge After 6 Seasons Of Cobra Kai
A new Karate Kid movie releases in 2025, but based on the scant plot details available, it could run into a tricky obstacle thanks to Cobra Kai.
As such, while the pauses caused by the SAG-AFTRA strike played a role in delaying the series and the movie until December, initially, it is clear thatcareful steps are being taken between Netflix and Sony to carefully release each production. Furthermore, with Macchio confirming thatCobra Kaiwill conclude beforeKarate Kid: Legendsreleases, the actor has given a window for when viewers can expect the streaming service to air the third and final volume of its last season.
Our Thoughts OnKarate Kid: Legends' Timeline
The Movie Promises To Redefine The Franchise
Even before confirmation of its timeline placement,Karate Kid: Legendshad the immense pressure of bringing together every corner of the franchise. While it was originally intended as a remake of the 1984 movie, the 2010The Karate Kidreboot is now confirmed to be part of the original franchise, withChan set to return as Mr. Han, taking over the mentor figure character from Pat Morita’s Mr. Miyagi.
New Karate Kid Movie Can Deliver A Fight I Never Thought I Would See And I’m Here For It
The Karate Kid’s upcoming legacy sequel gives me the chance to see a fight between two very unexpected characters, and I’m incredibly excited.
As such, setting the movie after the events ofCobra Kaidoes lessen the pressure that the movie faces by promising that most of the lingering questions around Daniel and his friend’s Netflix adventures will be resolved. With the fate of Daniel’s students presumably addressed by then, viewers ofKarate Kid: Legendsshould be able to focus on its own story.
Karate Kid: Legends
Cast
Karate Kid: Legends is a sequel to Cobra Kai and The Karate Kid directed by Jonathan Entwistle. The film sees Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan reprising their roles, continuing the legacy of martial arts mentorship and rivalry in a new era of challenges and apprentices.
