Ralph Macchio Says ‘Cobra Kai’ Season 6 Honors the ‘Magic’ of Pat Morita’s Mr. Miyagi More Than Ever
Ralph Macchio, beloved for his role in the original Karate Kid films, cherishes the lasting legacy of the late Pat Morita’s Mr. Miyagi. Season 6 of Cobra Kai will celebrate the “magic” of Morita’s character in an unprecedented way.
“I think he is smiling,” said Macchio, now 62, at the Cobra Kai season 6 premiere in Los Angeles. Reflecting on his mentor, who passed away in 2005, Macchio shared that the enduring love for the franchise comes from Morita, director John Avildsen, and producer Jerry Weintraub.
Macchio emphasized, “That original movie was special. But without Pat Morita’s Mr. Miyagi, we wouldn’t be here now. That’s the secret sauce—the soulful magic of the original.”
He added that honoring Mr. Miyagi’s character in the series has always been essential, with fans seeing even more of his story in the final season.
Cherished Moments On and Off the Screen
Macchio took on a new role by directing episode three of season 6, he shares, “And now finding that box of secrets really starts this intriguing journey for Daniel LaRusso and Mr. Miyagi’s legacy.”
In one touching episode, Daniel packs up Mr. Miyagi’s belongings to make space for Chozen Toguchi (Yugi Okumoto). He discovers a hidden box containing boxing gloves, news articles, and a passport with Mr. Miyagi’s picture but different details, prompting Daniel to uncover more about Mr. Miyagi’s past.
Macchio reminisced about his most unforgettable scene from the original Karate Kid. “The scene where Mr. Miyagi gives me the car, and I say, ‘You’re the best friend I’ve ever had,’ is just pure and genuine. Realizing that all the chores translated into karate moves was a big payoff. And even though getting my butt kicked wasn’t fun, winning in the end was worth it.”
From his debut in the 1984 Karate Kid to sequels in 1986 and 1989, Macchio’s journey with the franchise continues. He’s set to return alongside Jackie Chan in a future installment, set to launch in November 2023.
Reliving the Legacy
The Outsiders actor has been a staple on Cobra Kai since its Netflix premiere in 2018, along with William Zabka, his on-screen rival Johnny Lawrence. Both have been with the show from the start, and their dynamic continues to thrill fans.
Part one of Cobra Kai season 6 is now available for streaming on Netflix, ensuring that the legacy of Mr. Miyagi lives on in a heartfelt and magical way.
