Ben Wang is the next Karate Kid.
Wang, who previously starred opposite Michelle Yeoh in the Disney+ series 'American Born Chinese', landed the coveted role after a global search that saw thousands of young actors from around the world vying for the title role in the new 'Karate Kid by Sony. film, uniting Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio. According to studio insiders, Wang delivered a standout audition performance that demonstrated his deep connection to the character.
The actor, who is also fluent in Mandarin, is proficient in many forms of martial arts including Karate, Wing Chun/Kung Fu, Gumdo, Kempo and Taekwando.
Chan and Macchio, who announced the casting search via a video in November, will reprise the iconic characters of the “Karate Kid” franchise in the latest entry in the series from Sony Pictures.
Plot details have yet to be revealed for the new film, but Macchio will reprise his role as Daniel LaRusso from the original “Karate Kid” film trilogy and the “Cobra Kai” series, while Chan will return as Mr. Han, of a Kung. Fu master from the 2010 remake starring Jaden Smith.
Jonathan Entwistle, creator and director of Netflix's “I Am Not Okay With This” and “The End of the F-ing World,” will direct the film. “Peter Rabbit” screenwriter Rob Lieber will write the script and Karen Rosenfelt will produce.
Sony Pictures will release the film in theaters on December 13, 2024.
The The “Karate Kid” movies have grossed $618 million worldwide and spawned the Emmy-nominated Netflix series “Cobra Kai.” The series, created by Josh Heald, Jon Hurwitz and Hayden Schlossberg, takes place decades after the events of the original films, rekindling a rivalry between Daniel and Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka).
The Hollywood Reporter was the first to report the news.
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