The next “Karate Kid” film is in the works, and reports indicate Jackie Chan is in talks to reprise his role as Mr. Han. The famous stunt man, martial artist, director and actor appeared in the 2010 “Karate Kid” reboot starring Jaden Smith as Dre Parker. The newest film might see both return for some screen time.
Directed by Johnathan Entwistle, and produced by Sony Pictures, there’s little that we can currently tell you about the upcoming film. Early synopsis claim it’ll be a “return to the original “Karate Kid” franchise.” We hadn’t necessarily expected an extended “Karate Kid” universe, but that would tie the movies in with Netflix’s “Cobra Kai“.
Netflix’s “Cobra Kai,” along with the new “Karate Kid” film, are currently on hold due to the writer’s strike. But within that universe, the original characters of the “Karate Kid” franchise, Daniel LaRusso and Johnny Lawrence, are played by Ralph Macchio and William Zabka. Which makes the Chan and Smith films extensions of that universe, rather than revivals.
A new generation of Karate Kid to coincide with Daniel and Johnny’s stories. It would certainly be interesting to see how the two universes can tie together. We suppose there could be more than one Mr. Han. The last name can’t be that unique. Perhaps the Mr. Han of LaRusso’s story could be Chan’s character’s grandfather? We’ll just have to wait and see.
The new installment currently has a release date set for June 7th, 2024.
