Karate Kid: Legends is confirmed to be a fresh take on the franchise, standing apart from Cobra Kai. However, besides Ralph Macchio’s Daniel LaRusso, another key character must transition from Cobra Kai’s conclusion into this new sequel featuring Jackie Chan’s Mr. Han. If this character is missing, it may not create a plot hole, but it would feel strange given their close connection to Daniel.
The events of Karate Kid: Legend’s take place three years after Cobra Kai’s finale. While it follows the same timeline as previous Karate Kid films and the hit series, this movie aims to introduce a new chapter for the franchise. Because of this shift, most of the familiar Cobra Kai cast won’t appear. While fresh faces will bring energy to the story alongside Daniel and Mr. Han, at least one Cobra Kai character must absolutely be in Karate Kid to maintain continuity and authenticity.
Amanda LaRusso’s Absence Would Feel Unnatural In Karate Kid: Legends
Leaving Daniel’s wife out of the story would create an unnecessary gap
Cobra Kai expanded Daniel LaRusso’s life beyond the dojo, giving depth to his personal world. It introduced his family, including his children, Samantha and Anthony, and his wife, Amanda LaRusso, played by Courtney Henggeler. Since Samantha and Anthony are likely focused on their own lives—perhaps away at college—Amanda is the one character who logically remains in Daniel’s life. Her absence in Karate Kid: Legends would feel forced, as if the film is trying too hard to distance itself from Cobra Kai.
Although Legends takes place mostly in China and New York, California still plays a role in the story, as shown in the trailer. This means Amanda should logically appear, even briefly. While she could stay behind to manage the LaRusso Auto Group while Daniel travels, removing her entirely would be an odd creative choice. Even a short scene featuring Amanda would help maintain consistency with Daniel’s story arc.
Karate Kid: Legends Must Avoid Overloading Itself With Cobra Kai Elements
The story should move forward while respecting the past
Cobra Kai has already wrapped up its storyline. The series, which focused on redeeming Johnny Lawrence, concluded with his victory over Sensei Wolf (Lewis Tan) at the Sekai Taikai. Since most characters are moving on, it wouldn’t make sense for Karate Kid: Legends to be a direct Cobra Kai sequel.
That being said, Cobra Kai’s success proves that audiences still care deeply about the Karate Kid universe. For Legends to succeed, it needs to do what Cobra Kai did—honor the past while pushing the story forward. If the new movie becomes nothing more than a collection of Cobra Kai references, it risks losing its purpose. Instead, Karate Kid: Legends should stand on its own while still including key connections, like Amanda LaRusso, to keep the story authentic.
Why Amanda LaRusso’s Presence Matters In Karate Kid: Legends
Amanda is an essential part of Daniel’s life and should remain so
Since Cobra Kai reintroduced Daniel LaRusso to fans, Amanda has played a vital role in his journey. She has grounded him, offered wisdom, and been a strong presence in his life. Her absence in Legends would feel unnatural, considering how central she has been to Daniel’s development over the years.
Amanda’s role doesn’t have to be major, but even a short scene would help anchor Daniel’s story. A brief phone call, a video message, or even a quick in-person moment before Daniel leaves for China would be enough. Without Amanda, Daniel’s character arc would feel incomplete, making it essential that she appears in some capacity.
How Karate Kid: Legends Can Acknowledge Cobra Kai Without Overdependence
A balanced approach will ensure the film stands on its own
The challenge for Legends is to acknowledge Cobra Kai without being overshadowed by it. While some familiar faces, like Amanda, should appear, the film must focus on its own story rather than revisiting past conflicts.
Including Amanda allows Karate Kid: Legends to maintain credibility without becoming a full Cobra Kai reunion. It’s a simple way to bridge the past and present without disrupting the movie’s fresh direction.
Final Thoughts
As Karate Kid: Legends introduces a new era, it must be careful not to erase important elements from Daniel LaRusso’s life. While it doesn’t need to feature Cobra Kai’s entire cast, one Cobra Kai character who must absolutely be in Karate Kid is Amanda LaRusso. Her presence, even in a minor role, would ensure continuity and provide a natural link between Daniel’s past and future.
By embracing the franchise’s legacy while carving its own path, Legends can offer a compelling new chapter—one that feels authentic, complete, and respectful of everything that came before.
