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YouTube Red reboots Karate Kid

Ralph Macchio (left) in 1984’s The Karate Kid

YouTube has ordered a spin-off from feature film franchise The Karate Kid for its Red subscription service.

Ralph Macchio and William Zabka, both of whom starred in the original The Karate Kid movie in 1984, will reprise their roles in Cobra Kai (10×30′).

The series is set in 2014 and follows a down-and-out Johnny Lawrence (Zabka) as he reopens the infamous Cobra Kai karate dojo, reigniting his rivalry with a now successful Daniel LaRusso (Macchio), who has been struggling to maintain balance in his life without the guidance of his mentor, Mr. Miyagi.

The series will be available exclusively via YouTube Red in 2018 and is written and executive produced by Josh Heald, Jon Hurwitz and Hayden Schlossberg.

Heald is the writer behind Hot Tub Time Machine, while Hurwitz and Schlossberg created the Harold & Kumar film series.

Hurwitz and Schlossberg will direct much of the series, according to YouTube Red. James Lassiter and Caleeb Pinkett will executive produce for Overbrook Entertainment in association with Sony Pictures Television Studios.

“The minute I heard about this project, I knew we had to have it. The Karate Kid became an instant classic in the 1980s and still resonates with audiences around the world and on YouTube today,” said Susanne Daniels, global head of original content at YouTube.

“Cobra Kai will be a true continuation of the original films: packed with comedy, heart and thrilling fight scenes,” said Heald, Hurwitz and Schlossberg in a joint statement.

YouTube Red is currently available in the US, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico and South Korea.

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