Jackie Chan & Ralph Macchio Set to Star in New ‘Karate Kid’ Movie: Everything We Know So Far
Karate Kid fans, you’re in for a real treat! Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio are teaming up for a brand new Karate Kid film. Both stars will be reprising their roles from their Karate Kid films. Even more exciting, Macchio and Chan previously shared that kids from all over the world can submit an audition tape to become the new star of the movie. Now, they have cast the part and he is not a kid after all. 24-year-old Ben Wang, best known for the Disney+ series American Born Chinese, will become the next Karate Kid. He was reportedly cast due to being fluent in Mandarin as well as having experience with martial arts and acting.
Carlos Lopez-Calleja/Disney+/Everett Collection
Macchio appeared in the 1984 version of The Karate Kid, as well as its sequels, as Daniel LaRusso. His character became a karate champion after some unusual training from Mr. Miyagi, played by the late Pat Morita, who earned an Oscar nomination for his portrayal. Chan took over the role of a mentor in the 2010 remake starring Jaden Smith.
Columbia Pictures/Everett Collection
After seeing the success of the recent television series Cobra Kai, bringing back some of the characters from the ’80s versions, Sony started working on the latest version.
Columbia Pictures/Everett Collection
The new movie, directed by Jonathan Entwistle, will focus on a teen from China who moves to the East Coast of the United States and learns unexpected lessons from his mentor. Perhaps Macchio and Chan will team up to be mentors this time? Time will tell when the film is released in theaters on May 30, 2025. Will you be watching it?
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