Karate Kid: Legends: Release Date, Cast, Story Details, Cobra Kai Connection, and More

All the Jackie Chan fans are cheering high for Karate Kid: Legends. The sixth installment in the Karate Kid universe would be directed by Jonathan Entwistle. And will feature Chan and Ralph Macchio reprising their iconic roles as well as Ben Wang as Li Fong. Notably, this would also be the first movie in the franchise not produced by Jerry Weintraub, who sadly passed away in 2015.

The anticipation for the movie is huge at the moment, given the fan-following and popularity that the Karate Kid movies have gathered throughout the years. In this article, we will take a closer look at its story details, release date, cast, and also a specific Cobra Kai connection that’s bound to intrigue the viewers.

Who All Are in the Cast of Karate Kid: Legends?

Sony Pictures has unveiled the poster for Karate Kid: Legends, the latest chapter in the beloved 40-year franchise. This new installment introduces Ben Wang, known for his role in American Born Chinese, as Li Fong, the newest titular “Kid.” Further, the film is also set to bring back familiar faces from past projects as well.

For instance: Jackie Chan, is going to reprise his role as Mr. Han from the 2010 version, and Ralph Macchio, is returning as Daniel LaRusso. However, in the upcoming movie, he will take on a mentor-like role, guiding the next generation of martial artists.

The cast also includes other A-listers such as Joshua Jackson, celebrated for his performances in Fringe and Dawson’s Creek; Shaunette Renée Wilson, known for her roles in The Resident and The Blacklist; and Ming-Na Wen, renowned for her work in Mulan and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

Karate Kid: Legends Release Date

Karate Kid: Legends was originally scheduled to be released on June 7, 2024, perfectly aligning with the 40th anniversary of the classic Karate Kid film. However, due to changes in Sony’s timeline caused by the Hollywood strikes, the release date was moved to December 2024.

Now, the film has been delayed once more and with the new poster Sony also announced that the movie is set to hit theaters on May 30, 2025. This new date allows fans extra time to build excitement for the next installment in this beloved franchise.

The also movie aims to pay tribute to its legacy while introducing a fresh storyline that will resonate deeply with both longtime fans as well as new viewers.

What Do We Know About the Story of the Upcoming Movie?

The story follows Li Fong, played by Ben Wang, a Chinese teenager who moves to Brooklyn. As he adjusts to his new life, he discovers a love for martial arts, combining elements of kung fu and karate. During his journey, he meets important characters like Daniel LaRusso and Mr. Han, who help guide him.

At the moment, Sony is keeping the details of the story under wraps, so fans don’t know much about the plot. This has increased excitement as people wonder how Li’s story will connect with the classic Karate Kid series.

Does Karate Kid: Legends Have Any Connection With Cobra Kai?

Karate Kid: Legends will tie together multiple films in the beloved franchise. Ralph Macchio, the original star, recently shared insights into the film’s role within the Karate Kid universe, particularly regarding Cobra Kai. Macchio continues his portrayal of Daniel LaRusso in the Netflix series and is excited to star in the new movie alongside Jackie Chan, who reprises his role from the 2010 reboot.

While specific plot details remain largely under wraps, it has been confirmed that the story will take place on the East Coast and follow a new teenage protagonist as they learn martial arts. The actor offered hints about the upcoming at Big Texas Comic-Con and stated that the movie would feature its own distinct storyline within the broader Karate Kid universe. And also confirmed that:

Well, I can’t go into any depth on it except it’s another ecosystem within the grand universe of The 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.

Macchio’s remarks clarify the timeline for Karate Kid: Legends, confirming it will be released after Cobra Kai concludes. This aligns with earlier suggestions that the movie was set to premiere following the final season of Cobra Kai.

Despite delays caused by the SAG-AFTRA strike impacting the release schedule, both Netflix and Sony are working diligently to coordinate their timelines. With Cobra Kai concluding before the film’s release, fans can eagerly anticipate this next chapter in the franchise.

Karate Kid: Legends is scheduled for a theatrical release on May 30, 2025.