1980s pop culture is still in high demand as the Karate Kid sequel series Cobra Kai is making a streaming network jump from YouTube Premium to Netflix. The move comes after news that YouTube Premium would be pulling back its scripted content, which meant that the show would need to find a new home. And with Cobra Kai being one of the highest-rated shows, it was only a matter of time before someone like Netflix wanted to snatch it up.
The announcement was made via press release, which said that Under the terms of the deal, the first two seasons of Sony Pictures Television’s Cobra Kai will premiere on Netflix this year, with an all-new third season to follow.
Cobra Kai is a follow up to the original Karate Kid trilogy starring Ralph Macchio and William Zabka, both of whom reprise their star-making roles in the series. Martin Kove as sensei John Kreese also return to reprise their roles. The series takes place 30 years after the events of the 1984 All Valley Karate Tournament, where a now successful Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) struggles to maintain balance in his life without the guidance of Mr. Miyagi, and must face his previous adversary, down-and-out Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka), who seeks redemption by reopening the infamous Cobra Kai karate dojo.
While I have never seen a single episode, the show is recognized attempts at reviving 80s nostalgia for a modern age. Not only did it earn the rare 100% Fresh rating for its first season, but it has also received two Emmy nominations. So there is something to be said about Cobra Kai with all of those acolytes it has earned, and it has three seasons.
Here’s what Executive Producers Josh Heald, Jon Hurwitz, and Hayden Schlossberg had to say about Cobra Kai’s new home: “Making Cobra Kai has been a dream come true for us since day one. We are thankful for the tireless dedication of Jeff Frost, Chris Parnell, Jason Clodfelter, Karen Tatevosian, and all our partners at Sony for finding us a new home where we can not only continue the series, but also explore opportunities to further expand The Karate Kid universe. We are beyond excited to join our new partners at Netflix and look forward to the show reaching the massive global audience who loves this franchise as much as we do.”
Brian Wright, Vice President, Original Series, Netflix, added: “The appeal of The Karate Kid saga timeless, and Cobra Kai picks up right where it left off without missing a beat. The rivalry between Daniel and Johnny is one for the ages, and the show has a ton of heart and is a lot of fun. We can’t wait to introduce a new generation of fans to Cobra Kai and are thrilled to be its new home around the world.”
