Ralph Macchio is back on the big screen in Karate Kid: Legends, stepping into Daniel LaRusso’s shoes for the first time in nearly four decades.
At 63, Macchio says he’s all about protecting the legacy of The Karate Kid, and this new movie, which pairs him with Jackie Chan, hits that mark.
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Macchio said the movie “feels authentic and honours the legacy of the entire franchise.” For him, it’s about staying true to the heart of the story. “This franchise doesn’t know how to not do it right when we care,” he said. “I try to always take great care and protect my character, and I like to believe I’ve done that again.”
The connection between Jackie Chan’s Mr. Han and the iconic Mr. Miyagi, originally played by the late Pat Morita, adds depth for longtime fans. Macchio appreciates how this film builds on the foundation laid years ago while still opening doors for a new generation.
Coming off his role in the hit series Cobra Kai, Macchio didn’t jump into the movie right away. “I was in the middle of Cobra Kai and we were still finishing that story,” he explained. He wanted to make sure Daniel’s evolution made sense. Once they decided the film would pick up three years after the show, it felt right. “There’s an element of him being more Miyagi in his way and paying that legacy forward to a kid who needs his help,” he added.
While Karate Kid: Legends ties back to the franchise’s roots, it also suggests there’s more story to tell. Macchio is open to future projects, as long as they stay grounded. “As long as it’s honest, genuine and truthful to the base of this character and these characters, I’ll always be open to listen,” he said. “In a world that’s not always joyful, it’s really cool to bring some of that.”
Jackie Chan is back too, reprising his role as Mr. Han from the 2010 reboot. At 71, he’s still doing most of his own stunts. “Whatever I can do, I do it myself,” Chan said. “Now, if I can do one kick, I do one kick. I think the audience knows we want to see Jackie do the real things.”
Chan has been vocal about his concerns with CGI in action scenes. He believes overuse makes viewers “numb” to real danger. “In the old days, the only choice we had was to be there and jump. That’s it,” he said. “Today, with computers, actors can do anything, but there’s always a sense of reality that you feel is missing.”
Karate Kid: Legends blends old-school heart with modern action. For fans, it’s not just a trip down memory lane , it’s a new chapter worth watching.
