"Karate Kid: Legends" is an upcoming American martial arts drama film directed by Jonathan Entwistle and written by Rob Lieber. Scheduled for release on May 30, 2025, the film serves as the sixth installment in the Karate Kid franchise and is set three years after the events of the final season of the series "Cobra Kai" (2018–2025).
The narrative centers on Li Fong, portrayed by Ben Wang, a kung fu prodigy uprooted from his home in Beijing following a family tragedy. Relocating to New York City with his mother, Li struggles to adapt to his new environment and faces challenges in fitting in with his peers. Despite his reluctance to engage in conflict, circumstances lead him to enter a karate competition to assist a friend in need. Guided by his kung fu teacher, Mr. Han (Jackie Chan), and original Karate Kid Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio), Li embarks on a journey that blends different martial arts philosophies and techniques.
The film boasts a notable cast, including Joshua Jackson, Sadie Stanley, Ming-Na Wen, Aramis Knight, Wyatt Oleff, Danny McBride, and Jennifer-Lyn Christie in undisclosed roles. The collaboration of Chan and Macchio aims to bridge the original films with the 2010 reboot, creating a unified narrative within the franchise.
"Karate Kid: Legends" seeks to honor the legacy of its predecessors while introducing fresh perspectives and characters. Fans can anticipate a film that delves into themes of cultural adaptation, personal growth, and the enduring impact of mentorship.