‘Karate Kid: Legends’ Trailer: Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan Return to Train a New Generation
A new Karate Kid is ready to master the art of “wax on, wax off.”
Sony Pictures has unveiled the official trailer for Karate Kid: Legends, the latest installment in the beloved martial arts franchise, set to hit theaters on May 30.
This exciting new chapter unites franchise veteran Ralph Macchio, reprising his iconic role as Daniel LaRusso from the original 1984 Karate Kid, with action legend Jackie Chan, who played Mr. Han in the 2010 remake. Joining them is Ben Wang (American Born Chinese), who stars as Li Fong, a determined new student learning under the guidance of both Daniel and Mr. Han.
Wang’s journey to the role was no small feat. Following a global talent search announced by Chan and Macchio, thousands of young actors worldwide auditioned for the part. Wang stood out not only for his performance but for his impressive martial arts expertise, including skills in karate, wing chun/kung fu, gumdo, kempo, and taekwondo.
Reflecting on his connection to the Karate Kid legacy, Wang shared with Entertainment Weekly, “I was the target audience when that movie came out. I was exactly the age of the character. The whole movie takes place in Beijing, and I’d just come back from living for a year in Beijing. Also, I grew up watching Jackie Chan movies. He is the first memory I have of knowing what an actor is. It was all of my favorite things in one place.”
The cast also includes Ming-Na Wen as Li Fong’s mother, alongside Joshua Jackson and Sadie Stanley in supporting roles.
The film is directed by Jonathan Entwistle, the creative mind behind Netflix’s I Am Not Okay With This and The End of the F**ing World*. The screenplay comes from Rob Lieber, best known for Peter Rabbit, with Karen Rosenfeltproducing.
Karate Kid: Legends promises to bring nostalgia, action, and fresh energy to a new generation of fans while honoring the franchise’s timeless legacy. Catch it in theaters on May 30.
