Jackie Chan & Ralph Macchio to Star in New Theatrical Karate Kid Movie

The Karate Kid is back. Over a year ago, Sony Pictures announced a new big-screen feature for The Karate Kid franchise, but it was never clear what the plan was with Cobra Kai still on the air. Now, it looks like those plans are finally taking shape. Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan announced in a video today that they are reprising their respective roles from The Karate Kid film franchise for a brand-new movie together.

They also announced that a global search has begun for casting the new young Karate Kid star of the upcoming film. More details on the global casting search can be found at KarateKidCasting.com.

Macchio previously starred as Daniel LaRusso in the original three theatrical films for the series and its later hit spinoff series, Cobra Kai. Jackie Chan starred as Mr. Han, the teacher of Dre Parker (Jaden Smith) in the 2010 franchise reboot. Per Sony, the new film is set to bring both characters together and “continue the mythology of the original franchise. Additional plot details are being kept under wraps.

The film franchise has earned more than $430 million worldwide, and Cobra Kai has become one of the most watched original series on Netflix. The show’s previously announced sixth season will also be the final one and is due out on Netflix later on. The show also stars William Zabka, who returns as Johnny Lawrence from the first film, and Martin Kove as John Kreese. It’s not yet clear how the new movie will tie in with Cobra Kai.

The new film will be directed by Jonathan Entwistle from a screenplay by Rob Lieber. It’s planned for a December 13, 2024 theatrical release. You can check out the video announcement below: