Ralph Macchio Defends ‘Cobra Kai’ Character Development: “You Acted Like Such a Jerk”

As the highly anticipated final episodes of *Cobra Kai* approach, we had the opportunity to sit down with Ralph Macchio, the beloved actor who portrayed Daniel LaRusso. While fans may feel a tinge of sadness about concluding this thrilling chapter with the younger characters, it’s important to note that LaRusso’s journey is far from over.

Looking Ahead: Daniel LaRusso’s Return

Macchio is set to reprise his iconic role in *Karate Kid: Legends*, which takes place several years after the events of *Cobra Kai*.During a recent roundtable interview, I was intrigued by how the character of Daniel has developed throughout *Cobra Kai*.No longer just the quintessential hero, LaRusso’s narrative now delves deeper into his evolving relationships, particularly with his longtime rival, Johnny Lawrence, played by William Zabka.

The Evolution of Daniel LaRusso

In our conversation, Macchio reflected on Daniel’s development, emphasizing the necessity of embracing a character who occasionally falters.“There were a lot of ups and downs during the 65 episodes of *Cobra Kai*, ”he shared.“Where Daniel LaRusso ultimately ends up feels true to the essence of the character I originally portrayed in 1983. The journey has been both honest and genuine, capturing the core goodness of who he is.”Macchio highlighted that the complexity of Daniel’s choices has led to impactful storytelling throughout the series.

Embracing Flaws for Authenticity

One of the most compelling elements of Daniel LaRusso’s character is his imperfections. Macchio explained, “We’ve always sought to present the more flawed sides of Daniel, as it adds depth and drama. Without these imperfections, the storyline loses its momentum.” He noted his collaborative efforts with creators Jon Hurwitz, Hayden Schlossberg, and Josh Heald, ensuring that Daniel’s character growth remains authentic, even amidst moments of vulnerability.

Defending a Complex Character

Macchio also discussed the challenge of maintaining Daniel’s integrity amid evolving perceptions from audiences. With fans possessing decades-long attachments to LaRusso, the actor emphasized the importance of staying true to the character’s essence, despite diverse reactions.“It sometimes felt like I had to defend Daniel against criticism, ”Macchio confessed.“However, all of his struggles contributed to a richer, more nuanced portrayal that resonates with viewers.”He believes that even with the imperfections, fans ultimately rally behind Daniel as they did when they first met him in 1984.

Reflecting on Nostalgia

The Brat Pack posing for The Outsiders — (Warner Bros)

With both *Cobra Kai* and the upcoming *Legends*, Macchio’s impact on popular culture is as strong as ever. Generations of fans continue to celebrate his roles, with frequent nods to classics like *My Cousin Vinny* and *The Outsiders*.When asked about the nostalgia surrounding his work, Macchio articulated the emotional connection audiences feel with these characters.“Seeing young fans approach me with fond memories, even asking me to write ‘Stay gold’—it’s a surreal experience that I treasure, ”he expressed, reflecting on the enduring legacy of his roles.

The Power of Enduring Characters

Macchio conveyed his appreciation for the lasting influence exercised by these stories.“It’s incredible to witness *The Outsiders* flourishing on Broadway and to realize that *The Karate Kid* remains relevant, ”he remarked. He articulated his gratitude for being part of such iconic narratives.“When young fans enthusiastically engage with these stories alongside their parents, it reinforces the significance of my character across generations.”He shared enthusiasm for the future, noting that *Cobra Kai* represents a significant moment in his career.

Mark your calendars: the final episodes of *Cobra Kai* will make their spectacular debut on Netflix on February 13.

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