Netflix has confirmed the premiere date for the eagerly anticipated finale of the
Cobra Kai series. The last chapter of this beloved series will launch on February 13, 2025,
in a third installment of the sixth season, which has been split across three parts. Fans have waited patiently to learn the fate of their favorite characters, and the announcement was accompanied by emotional messages of appreciation for the show’s legacy.
The final five episodes will continue the story of Daniel LaRusso, portrayed by Ralph Macchio, and former antagonist turned ally Johnny Lawrence, played by William Zabka. A teaser trailer released by Netflix encapsulates the essence of their enduring friendship, featuring the iconic crane stance performed on Venice Beach, evoking nostalgia for long-time fans of The Karate Kid franchise.
According to Zabka, who has grown from villain to antihero throughout the series, this may be the end of the line for his character, but he affirmed with excitement, "But Cobra Kai never dies!" This powerful sentiment has echoed throughout the series, effectively capturing its spirit.
The sixth season of Cobra Kai has been widely praised for maintaining continuity with the original Karate Kid films, cleverly developing character arcs and themes of redemption. Following the climactic events of the previous episodes, where the Sekai Taikai competition took a dark turn, the focus of the finale will navigate heavy subjects rooted deeply within the characters' histories.
Ralph Macchio expressed his enthusiasm for the series' conclusion, stating, "You need to hit the bottom to come back up, and that's kind of where we are. I'm very excited... it feels right to land the plane, 'Cobra Kai' proper." This perspective highlights the significance of the series' ending, tying together four decades of storytelling within The Karate Kid universe.
Promising fans an uplifting finish, Zabka remarked on the finale’s potential, claiming, "[The producers] stick the landing in a way that's unexpected, uplifting, and honest." The series creators also shared their thoughts. Co-creator Hayden Schlossberg noted, "The show will end our love for The Karate Kid, but our desire to play in The Karate Kid sandbox doesn't end." This shows promise for future explorations within the beloved universe.
Since its premiere on YouTube Red/Premium in 2018, Cobra Kai has grown to become one of the major success stories for streaming platforms. It transitioned to Netflix, which helped revitalize interest, leading to increased popularity and sustained viewership through six seasons. The storyline continued to weave new elements and legendary characters from the Karate Kid franchise, transforming Johnny Lawrence from antagonist to karate sensei.
The significance of the upcoming finale cannot be understated as it brings to closure the thrilling saga of karate, friendship, and rivalry. The Sekai Taikai tournament stands central to the plot, illustrating Johnny and Daniel's collaborative efforts to train new generations of karate students.
With the climax of their story drawing near, Netflix has touted, "Almost 40 years after the events of the 1984 All Valley Karate Tournament, it's all been leading to this." Audiences are now set to witness how the intertwined fates of these characters will resolve within the show, as secrets and pasts converge.
Aside from Cobra Kai, fans will have more to look forward to: A follow-up feature film titled Karate Kid: Legends is scheduled for theatrical release on May 30, 2025. This film will see Macchio reprise his role alongside Jackie Chan, paving the way for new stories and characters within the Karate Kid legacy.
The series finale of Cobra Kai marks the conclusion of this tumultuous yet heartwarming ride, but as Zabka and the creators remind us, "Cobra Kai never dies," hinting at the possibility of more stories to come within this beloved universe. So, grab your gi, and prepare to join Daniel and Johnny as they face their greatest challenges yet.
