Ralph Macchio Reflects on the Legacy of ‘Karate Kid’ Costar Pat Morita
It has been 20 years since Karate Kid star Noriyuki “Pat” Morita passed away, but his former costar Ralph Macchio still thinks of him often. Macchio, who starred in The Karate Kid, its first two sequels and TV spinoff Cobra Kai, recently shared that he believes Morita would have been nothing but supportive about the expansion of the Karate Kid franchise, or as fans call it, the “Miyagi-verse.”
“I think he’d be the first one buying the popcorn and inviting everyone over. I really do,” Macchio explained to People. “I think we’ve respectfully kept the legacy alive and always paid homage to his character because honestly, and I’ve said it probably a million times, we’re not here today without him. We’re not.”
Columbia Pictures/Everett Collection
Cobra Kai recently ended after six seasons with a fan-loved finale. And while Morita was not involved in the show, one of the reasons Macchio signed on had to do with his wish to further the legacy of the films and Morita. Back in 2022, he wrote a beautiful letter about the impact Morita had on him as a young person and how he continues to inspire him today.
He wrote to Morita in an essay published in People, saying, “If I were able to explain to you all that is happening with The Karate Kid based on what we were a part of creating nearly 40 years ago, I’m not sure you would believe it. The legacy of your work and contribution to the world in your portrayal of Mr. Miyagi shines brighter than ever.”
He added, “Thank you for the gift of our friendship, for blessing us with your brilliant portrayal of the iconic Mr. Miyagi and, mostly, for your ongoing presence in my life.”
Tell us, who is your favorite character in The Karate Kid or Cobra Kai? Find out what the rest of the cast is up to now:
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