The Legacy of Cobra Kai: A Six-Season Triumph

Feb 17, 2025 at 3:00 PM
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After six seasons, the creators of Cobra Kai, Jon Hurwitz, Hayden Schlossberg, and Josh Heald, have brought the beloved series to a satisfying conclusion. This final season has not only provided closure for fans but also delved deep into the characters' journeys, particularly focusing on Johnny Lawrence's redemption and the rebirth of Cobra Kai dojo. The show's finale included iconic moments like the return of "You're the Best" and a climactic confrontation on a yacht. Through these elements, the creators ensured that the series remained true to its roots while offering fresh surprises.

The journey of Cobra Kai began in 2018, when io9 first interviewed the trio about their ambitious project. Over the years, they became some of the biggest fans of the Karate Kid franchise, dedicating themselves to crafting a story that resonated with both old and new audiences. In this final interview, they reflect on how the concept evolved from a long shot to a monumental achievement. From securing rights in 2016-2017 to transitioning from YouTube to Netflix, the creators express gratitude for the opportunity to tell a six-season saga. They acknowledge that in today's television landscape, reaching such a milestone is rare, making their success even more remarkable.

A significant aspect of the final season was the deliberate use of "You're the Best," a song that holds immense meaning for fans. The creators reveal that this moment was planned well in advance, specifically for the training montage featuring Johnny and Daniel. They emphasize the importance of timing, ensuring the song appeared during a truly special and iconic sequence. This decision underscores the creators' commitment to honoring the franchise's legacy while creating memorable moments for viewers.

Johnny Lawrence's transformation has been central to the series. The creators discuss how they always intended for Johnny to regain control of his dojo, ultimately leading to the revival of Cobra Kai. They explain that this arc was carefully crafted to provide Johnny with a redemptive path, allowing him to confront his past and embrace a new beginning. The challenge lay in finding a way to make Cobra Kai powerful again without losing its edge. By positioning Johnny as the rightful leader, they aimed to create a narrative that felt both familiar and innovative.

The final episodes introduced several twists, including Miguel and Johnny rejoining Cobra Kai through a loophole, and the unexpected victory at the Seikai-Teikai tournament. The creators share that these plot points were part of their broader plan, which included resolving Johnny's relationship with Kreese. They describe how they wanted Johnny to reach a point where he could acknowledge the lessons learned from Kreese while expressing the pain inflicted by him. The climax on the yacht symbolized the explosive end to this conflict, providing a dramatic and fitting conclusion to their story.

The fate of Kreese and Silver left room for interpretation, with the creators hinting at the possibility of their survival. While they filmed additional scenes that were ultimately cut, they chose to keep the ending ambiguous, allowing fans to speculate. This decision reflects their desire to leave the door open for future narratives within the Cobra Kai universe. The creators also touch on the challenges of bringing back original cast members, acknowledging that not everyone could be involved due to scheduling constraints. However, they maintain that the final product remains strong and complete.

In the closing moments of the series, the creators opted for a lighter note, introducing a scene with Johnny and Daniel sharing a meal. This choice serves as a palate cleanser, offering a glimpse into the characters' lives post-conflict. It reassures fans that despite the intense drama, there is hope and normalcy ahead. The fly and chopsticks scene adds a humorous touch, tying together Daniel's relationship with Mr. Miyagi and providing a heartwarming conclusion.

As the creators look toward the future, they express optimism about the potential for more stories within the Cobra Kai world. They believe that the success of the new Karate Kid movie will only enhance the overall ecosystem, allowing different branches of the franchise to thrive. With this mindset, they remain dedicated to exploring untold tales, including the possibility of a Miyagi spin-off. The legacy of Cobra Kai continues to inspire, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what comes next in this rich and evolving universe.