LOS ANGELES (ANN/THE STRAITS TIMES) – In a nostalgic twist, American actor Ralph Macchio, famed for his portrayal of Daniel LaRusso, and Hong Kong action legend Jackie Chan, renowned for his role as gongfu master Mr Han, have joined forces in a video to launch the quest for the next Karate Kid.
As integral figures in The Karate Kid martial arts drama franchise spanning from 1984 to the present, Macchio and Chan announced on November 21 that they are set to reunite for another instalment of the iconic series, casting their gaze on the search for a new teenage protagonist.
“Hi everyone, we’ve got big news,” Chan began in their video. “We’re starring in a new Karate Kid movie together,” Macchio said.
“That’s big news, but we even have bigger news,” Chan continued, as Macchio looked surprised and asked: “Bigger than that?”
“We’re looking for the next Karate Kid,” Chan replied.
“That’s right. The global search for the star of our new film starts right now. So let’s wax on, wax off, everybody,” Macchio said, quoting karate master Mr Miyagi’s famous line from the original movies.
Encouraging enthusiasts to participate, the video directs viewers to karatekidcasting.com for comprehensive details.
The website outlines the movie’s search for a male aged 15 to 17, proficient in English, and available from March to June 2024 to portray the character Li Fong.
While acting experience is preferred, it’s not mandatory, with conversational Mandarin and any background in martial arts, movement, gymnastics, and dance deemed advantageous.
Directed by Jonathan Entwistle, the film is slated to premiere in cinemas on December 13, 2024, as reported by American media sources.
Ralph Macchio, renowned for his breakthrough role in the original Karate Kid films from 1984 to 1989, has since gained widespread recognition. He continues to portray LaRusso in the TV series Cobra Kai, set 34 years post the original films, with the series recently renewed for its sixth and final season in January.
Jackie Chan, aged 69, notably starred in the 2010 Karate Kid remake, assuming the role of Mr Han, mentor to Jaden Smith’s Dre Parker.
