Cobra Kai’s Final 5 Episodes: Miguel Actor Teases Emotional Closure for Karate Kid Series

Xolo Maridueña, who portrays Miguel Diaz in the acclaimed Netflix series Cobra Kai, recently shared his reflections on how the show’s concluding episodes will appropriately wrap up the narrative. This popular series, which began as a spinoff of the classic The Karate Kid films, premiered on YouTube Red in 2018. It offers a fresh perspective on the original tale, focusing on Johnny Lawrence’s viewpoint and his complex rivalry with Daniel LaRusso. After moving to Netflix for its third season, the sixth and final season is slated for release on February 13.

In a conversation with Tessa Smith from Screen Rant during the Saturn Awards, Maridueña expressed his anticipation for the series’ finale. He emphasized that the upcoming episodes convey a sense of closure and commended his co-stars, Ralph Macchio and William Zabka, who play Daniel and Johnny, respectively. He also reflected on the emotional experience of filming his last scenes. Below are Maridueña’s insights:

I can tease that we worked the hardest on them. This has been a seven-year journey for myself, and a journey since ’84 for Ralph and Billy, so, they were putting in the work like. The tone felt very final, and for those reasons, we had over a year to film this last season, so we’re ready to have it be out now. I don’t know what the heck it’s gonna feel like internally, because then, once the episodes are out, then who knows if they’re gonna show up at Thanksgiving. So, we’ll see.

But I can tell you that I’m so proud of it, and everyone else that’s supported our show, as well. Yeah, of course, the last day on set [was emotional].I was so grateful that this year, actually, both Ralph and Billy got an opportunity to direct, and getting them behind the camera, getting them in the position of riding the bull and directing where the ship is going was really just so fantastic. And they fit perfectly, so I’m hoping after the show comes out, we get to see whatever else they’ll do, and support them wherever they go.

Significance of Maridueña’s Comments on Cobra Kai’s Conclusion

Cobra Kai image of Daniel, Johnny, and Chozen in Miyagi-do uniforms

Cobra Kai has garnered recognition not only for its engaging storylines but also for successfully honoring the legacy of The Karate Kid. This success can largely be attributed to its versatile writing, which has adeptly navigated different genres while maintaining a cohesive tone. Maridueña’s remarks imply that the final episodes will uphold this tradition, providing a satisfying conclusion that aligns with the show’s overarching narrative.

Given the title of the series and Johnny’s backstory, it seems essential that Cobra Kai culminates in a redemption arc, ultimately allowing the dojo to triumph.

As the last five episodes approach their release, fans are hopeful for a resolution that feels conclusive and enhances the broader franchise. The involvement of Macchio and Zabka as directors for individual episodes further assures continuity and tone consistency, as they are integral to the franchise’s legacy. Viewers are eager to see their favorite characters receive the arcs they deserve, culminating in a definite conclusion that resonates with Maridueña’s sentiment of finality.

Our Take on Cobra Kai’s Conclusion

Key Plot Threads Awaiting Resolution

Kwon (Brandon H. Lee) lying on the mat with a dagger stabbed in his chest in Cobra Kai Season 6 Ep 10 — Image courtesy of Netflix

As we approach the endgame, numerous theories surrounding Cobra Kai Season 6 Part 3 have emerged. The series must confront a range of significant plotlines. These include the resolution of the Sekai Taikai tournament, the ongoing threat posed by Terry Silver, and the ramifications of Kwan’s death, along with potential redemption arcs for characters like Tori and Kreese. It will be a challenge to tie up these narratives cohesively, and fans are eager for the series to deliver a powerful finale.

Looking ahead, the franchise will also expand with the upcoming film Karate Kid: Legends, returning Ralph Macchio, set three years after the events of Cobra Kai.

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