Jackie Chan in Discussions for New ‘Karate Kid' Film, Says Report
The Karate Kid franchise is set to make a comeback, as Sony Pictures is in talks with the renowned martial arts legend, Jackie Chan, to reprise his role as the iconic teacher. According to an announcement by Discussion Film, the studio is currently engaged in discussions with Chan, who is 69 years old, for his return.
Although the upcoming film remains untitled, it already has a confirmed release date for the summer of 2024. In 2010, Jackie Chan starred alongside Jaden Smith in the franchise's previous installment. Chan portrayed Mr. Han, a maintenance man who teaches kung fu to Dre Parker, played by Smith, to help him overcome bullying. The film was primarily shot in China, but it is uncertain whether the new project will return to the exact location. Furthermore, it remains to be seen if Jaden Smith will reprise his role in the franchise.
While the plot details have been kept under wraps, Sony has described the forthcoming reboot as a “return to the original Karate Kid franchise.” The initial Karate Kid film, released in 1984, featured Ralph Macchio as Daniel LaRusso, a student who trains under Pat Morita's Mr. Miyagi, a maintenance man and karate master. Three sequels followed the original film in 1986, 1989, and 1994. In a more recent development, the TV series Cobra Kai brought Macchio and William Zabka back as their respective characters, Daniel and Johnny Lawrence, renewing their rivalry. Additionally, the 2010 reimagination of the film, starring Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith, grossed nearly $360 million globally, exceeding its USD 40 million budget.
The studio has yet to disclose the extent of Jackie Chan's involvement in the upcoming film, but the next installment of the Karate Kid series is scheduled to premiere on June 7, 2024.
