'Karate Kid' casts Ben Wang of 'American Born Chinese' for new film
'Karate Kid' casts Ben Wang of 'American Born Chinese' for the iconic franchise's titular role. He will star opposite Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio.
Ben Wang is the next Karate Kid.
Wang, who previously starred opposite Michelle Yeoh in the Disney+ series “American Born Chinese,” landed the sought-after role after a worldwide search that saw thousands of young actors from around the globe vie for the title role in Sony’s new “Karate Kid” movie, which unites Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio. Per studio insiders, Wang delivered a standout audition performance that demonstrated his deep connection to the character.
The actor, who is also fluent in Mandarin, is skilled across many forms of martial arts, including Karate, Wing Chun/Kung Fu, Gumdo, Kempo and Taekwando.
Chan and Macchio, who announced the casting search via a video in November, will reprise their iconic “Karate Kid” franchise characters in the latest entry to the series from Sony Pictures.
Plot details are still under wraps on the new movie, but Macchio will once again play Daniel LaRusso from the original “Karate Kid” film trilogy and the series “Cobra Kai,” while Chan will return to the role of Mr. Han, a Kung Fu master from the 2010 remake movie starring Jaden Smith.
Rating: 5