After a worldwide search that had fans buzzing, Ben Wang has emerged as the next Karate Kid in Karate Kid: Legends. Handpicked by producer Karen Rosenfelt, Wang blends youthful charisma with powerful martial arts skills—earning comparisons to none other than Back to the Future’s Marty McFly.

“It’s always like threading a needle when you’re looking for the center of a film,” she says. “I couldn’t be happier with Ben. He’s exactly what I saw in my mind. I think he’s the Marty McFly of our generation. He’s so talented—he performed most of his own stunts—and I think he’s got an amazing career ahead of him.”

And it’s easy to see why.

Meet Li Fong: From Beijing to the Bronx

In this bold reboot, Wang stars as Li Fong, a kung fu fighter uprooted from Beijing and dropped into the culture shock of New York City. As Li navigates school bullies and martial arts turf wars, he finds mentorship in the legendary Mr. Han (Jackie Chan)—and eventually teams up with none other than Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) to master the way of karate.

The result? A thrilling, emotional showdown where kung fu and karate collide with purpose.

Ben Wang: A Star Born for the Role

Having grown up on the 2010 Karate Kid remake starring Chan and Jaden Smith, Wang’s connection to the franchise runs deep.

“It gets me emotional, this idea of going somewhere completely new and having to start over and finding people who help you along the way. And that’s what these movies are really about, you know? Behind the kung fu and the karate and all that cool stuff, it’s about finding your way, learning to fit in, and finding good teachers.”

Wang not only performs most of his own stunts but also breathes authenticity into his role—drawing from his real-life journey of moving from Beijing back to the U.S.

The Stamp of Approval: Ralph Macchio Weighs In

Ralph Macchio, the OG Karate Kid, couldn’t be more impressed with his young co-star.

“His work ethic, his preparedness, his not taking anything for granted—he will be this generation’s Karate Kid!” Macchio says. “Yes, I carry that, that’s not going away for me, ever. And I am extremely proud and privileged to have it. He’s in almost every frame of the movie, like I was.”

And with a laugh, Macchio adds:

“I didn’t have to speak another language, though, like he does. So he’s already ahead of me right there!”

Mark Your Calendars: May 28

Get ready to experience heart-pounding action, touching mentorship, and a new chapter in martial arts cinema. Karate Kid: Legends kicks into high gear in Philippine cinemas on May 28. Reserve your cinema tickets here.

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