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The New Karate Kid: 7 Shocking Details About 'Karate Kid: Legends' You Need To Know Before 2025

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The *Karate Kid* franchise is officially expanding its universe in 2025, and it’s bigger than anyone expected. The highly anticipated new film, officially titled *Karate Kid: Legends*, is set to hit theaters on May 30, 2025, promising to bridge the gap between the original films and the recent *Cobra Kai* series while introducing a fresh new protagonist. This is not a simple reboot; it's a monumental cinematic event bringing together two of the franchise’s most beloved figures.

The new movie sees the return of both Ralph Macchio as Daniel LaRusso and Jackie Chan as Mr. Han from the 2010 remake, a crossover moment fans have dreamed of for years. The focus shifts to a new "karate kid," Li Fong, played by rising star Ben Wang, as he navigates a challenging move from Beijing to New York City and finds mentorship in the two martial arts masters. Here are the most up-to-date and crucial details about *Karate Kid: Legends*.

Who is Ben Wang? The New Protagonist's Full Profile

The success of the new era rests on the shoulders of its new lead, Ben Wang. The young actor has already made a name for himself in critically acclaimed roles, and his selection for the iconic role of Li Fong was the result of a worldwide casting search. Here is a complete biographical profile of the new "Karate Kid":

  • Full Name: Ben Wang
  • Date of Birth: September 21, 1997 (Age 28 as of late 2025)
  • Birthplace: Beijing, China
  • Nationality: American (Immigrated to the United States at age six)
  • New Character Name: Li Fong
  • Breakthrough Role: Jin Wang in the Disney+ series *American Born Chinese*
  • Notable Filmography: *American Born Chinese* (2023), *Chang Can Dunk* (2023), *The Long Walk* (2025)
  • Martial Arts Background: While his character Li Fong is a kung fu prodigy, Wang’s specific real-world martial arts training for the role has been extensive, blending traditional kung fu with the karate style of the franchise.

Wang's background as an immigrant from Beijing who moved to the United States closely mirrors the journey of his character, Li Fong, adding a layer of authenticity to the performance.

The Plot: Bridging Continents and Styles of Martial Arts

The storyline for *Karate Kid: Legends* is a fresh take on the classic underdog narrative, but with a significant twist: the protagonist is already a skilled martial artist, just one who is out of place.

1. The Protagonist is a Kung Fu Prodigy, Not a Beginner

Unlike Daniel LaRusso or Dre Parker, the new lead, Li Fong, is introduced as a talented and disciplined kung fu prodigy from Beijing. His journey begins when he and his mother, Dr. Fong (played by Ming-Na Wen), relocate to New York City for his mother's new job. The core conflict arises from the difficulty Li Fong faces trying to fit into his new environment and a prestigious new school, where his kung fu skills may not translate to the local challenges he faces.

2. The Unprecedented Macchio and Chan Crossover

The biggest headline is the union of Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) and Mr. Han (Jackie Chan). The plot sees Li Fong seeking guidance from both masters, who represent two different, yet complementary, branches of martial arts philosophy. Mr. Han, the mentor from the 2010 film, and Daniel LaRusso, the original "Karate Kid" and sensei from *Cobra Kai*, will both tutor Li Fong. This setup is designed to explore the differences and common ground between Karate and Kung Fu, creating a truly unique martial arts blend for the new generation.

3. The New York City Setting

The film shifts the primary setting from the familiar Southern California of the original films and *Cobra Kai* (and the Beijing/China setting of the 2010 film) to New York City. This urban, high-pressure environment is expected to provide a fresh backdrop for the classic themes of bullying, finding a mentor, and self-discovery. The move from Beijing to the bustling, competitive landscape of NYC is central to Li Fong's struggle to adapt and find his identity.

The *Cobra Kai* Connection: Where Does 'Legends' Fit?

For fans of the *Cobra Kai* streaming series, the question of canon is paramount. The new movie does not exist in a separate universe; it is a direct continuation of the established timeline.

4. It Takes Place After the Events of *Cobra Kai*

Ralph Macchio has confirmed that *Karate Kid: Legends* is set in the same cinematic universe as the original films and *Cobra Kai*. Specifically, the movie's events are confirmed to take place approximately three years after the conclusion of the *Cobra Kai* series. This timing allows for Daniel LaRusso's character arc to have naturally progressed following the final major tournament or conflict in the series, positioning him as a seasoned, established sensei ready to take on a new, unique student.

5. The Director is a Proven Talent for Teen Dramas

The film is directed by Jonathan Entwistle, a name that should excite fans of character-driven teen narratives. Entwistle is best known as the creator and director of the critically acclaimed Netflix series *The End of the F***ing World*. His involvement suggests that *Karate Kid: Legends* will not just be a martial arts spectacle, but a deep dive into the emotional and psychological challenges of a young person trying to find his place, which is the heart of every great *Karate Kid* story.

6. Rob Lieber is Writing the Screenplay

The screenplay is being handled by Rob Lieber, known for his work on family and adventure films like *Peter Rabbit* and *Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day*. This choice of writer indicates a focus on maintaining the franchise's family-friendly core and balancing the action with heartfelt, comedic, and dramatic elements. The combination of Entwistle’s sharp direction and Lieber’s experienced writing promises a film that respects the nostalgia while forging a new path.

7. The Official Release Date is May 30, 2025

Mark your calendars: *Karate Kid: Legends* is scheduled for a wide theatrical release on May 30, 2025. This Memorial Day weekend slot is a prime position for a major blockbuster and demonstrates the studio's confidence in the film’s potential to be a massive hit. The excitement surrounding the dual-mentor storyline and the introduction of Ben Wang's Li Fong suggests this film will be a pivotal moment in the history of the *Karate Kid* cinematic universe.

The New Karate Kid: 7 Shocking Details About 'Karate Kid: Legends' You Need to Know Before 2025
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