Two legendary figures in martial arts cinema, Jackie Chan, 71, and Ralph Macchio, 63, are set to join forces in the upcoming film Karate Kid: Legends. This exciting new installment continues to build on the beloved Karate Kid franchise, merging the classic and updated stories from both the original 1980s trilogy and the 2010 reboot.
Ralph Macchio, best known for his iconic role as Daniel LaRusso in the original trilogy and the Netflix series Cobra Kai, will share the screen with Jackie Chan, who played Mr. Han in the 2010 reboot alongside Jaden Smith. The narrative of Karate Kid: Legends takes place three years after Cobra Kai, introducing a new character, Li Fong, portrayed by newcomer Ben Wang. Li is a young Chinese boy who trains in karate under the guidance of both Mr. Han and Daniel LaRusso. The story also features conflict through Li’s nemesis Connor Day, played by Aramis Knight, and a love interest, Mia Lipani, played by Sadie Stanley. Mia’s father, Victor, portrayed by Joshua Jackson, adds depth to the storyline as a former boxer turned pizzeria owner who becomes a mentor to Li.
During a recent photocall for the film in London, the trio of Chan, Macchio, and Wang engaged with fans and media against a striking sunset backdrop, accompanied by traditional Chinese drummers, emphasizing the film’s cultural roots. In an interview with Fandango, Macchio expressed his excitement about working with Jackie Chan, stating, “It’s Jackie Chan — a legendary performer, stuntperson, actor. Only a few times in your career you get to brush with greatness, so I was excited for that opportunity.” He emphasized his commitment to honoring the legacy of the franchise, particularly the contributions made by the late Pat Morita, who portrayed Mr. Miyagi.
For his part, Chan remarked on the fortuitous timing of their collaboration, saying, “It’s just like fate. Why this is everything together now. We united, like a whole family.”
Karate Kid: Legends is set to make its U.S. debut on May 30, promising to delight long-time fans and new viewers alike with its rich narrative and the merging of iconic characters from different eras of martial arts cinema. This film is sure to evoke nostalgia while providing a fresh perspective on the franchise, showcasing the enduring appeal of martial arts stories across generations.