Netflix Officially Announces the Production of “Mr. Miyagi”: A Prequel to The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai

Netflix has officially confirmed the production of Mr. Miyagi, a highly anticipated prequel film that will delve into the origin story of one of the most beloved characters in martial arts cinema. The film is set to explore the early life and untold story of Mr. Kesuke Miyagi, the wise and soft-spoken mentor made iconic by the late Pat Morita in the original Karate Kid series.

Serving as a prequel to both The Karate Kid and the hit series Cobra Kai, Mr. Miyagi will shed light on the character’s mysterious past, tracing his journey from Okinawa to the United States, his experiences during World War II, and how he eventually came to master martial arts and adopt his trademark philosophy of balance, honor, and peace.

According to Netflix, the film will aim to connect long-time fans with the roots of the franchise while also introducing a new generation to the legacy of Mr. Miyagi. Producers have hinted that the story will be emotionally rich, action-packed, and deeply character-driven, offering a blend of tradition, culture, and drama that made the original films so iconic.

While casting has not yet been officially announced, Netflix promises an authentic and respectful portrayal of the character’s heritage and backstory. Fans are already speculating whether the film will feature younger versions of familiar characters or even connections to Daniel LaRusso’s family lineage.

Cobra Kai, which revived the franchise with a fresh and nostalgic approach, has played a major role in reigniting interest in The Karate Kid universe. With Mr. Miyagi, Netflix aims to expand that universe further, paying tribute to a character whose wisdom and legacy continue to inspire audiences around the world.

Production is set to begin later this year, with a release window expected to be announced soon. As anticipation builds, one thing is certain — Mr. Miyagi’s story is far from over.