Cobra Kai, the hit martial arts comedy-drama series, is a continuation of the iconic Karate Kid franchise. Since its debut in 2018, the show has gained a massive fan following, blending nostalgia with fresh storytelling. Below, we break down all the details about Cobra Kai, including its seasons, cast, budget, release dates, and more.
Overview of Cobra Kai
Cobra Kai picks up decades after the events of the original Karate Kid films, focusing on the rivalry between Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka) and Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio). The series explores their ongoing feud while introducing a new generation of karate students.
Originally a YouTube Red/YouTube Premium exclusive, the show moved to Netflix after two seasons and has since become one of the platform’s most-watched series.
Cobra Kai All Seasons & Release Dates
Season | Episodes | Release Date | Platform |
---|---|---|---|
Season 1 | 10 | May 2, 2018 | YouTube Premium |
Season 2 | 10 | April 24, 2019 | YouTube Premium |
Season 3 | 10 | January 1, 2021 | Netflix |
Season 4 | 10 | December 31, 2021 | Netflix |
Season 5 | 10 | September 9, 2022 | Netflix |
Season 6 (Final Season) | TBA | 2025 (Expected) | Netflix |
Season Summaries
- Season 1 (2018): Johnny reopens Cobra Kai, while Daniel tries to stop him.
- Season 2 (2019): The rivalry intensifies, leading to a brutal school fight.
- Season 3 (2021): Daniel visits Okinawa, and Kreese takes over Cobra Kai.
- Season 4 (2021): The All Valley Tournament returns with new stakes.
- Season 5 (2022): Terry Silver expands Cobra Kai globally.
- Season 6 (2025): The final showdown in the Sekai Taikai tournament.
Cobra Kai Main Cast & Characters
Actor | Character | Role |
---|---|---|
Ralph Macchio | Daniel LaRusso | Miyagi-Do Karate Sensei |
William Zabka | Johnny Lawrence | Cobra Kai Founder |
Xolo Maridueña | Miguel Diaz | Johnny’s Top Student |
Tanner Buchanan | Robby Keene | Johnny’s Son & Daniel’s Student |
Mary Mouser | Samantha LaRusso | Daniel’s Daughter |
Jacob Bertrand | Hawk (Eli Moskowitz) | Former Cobra Kai, Now Miyagi-Do |
Gianni DeCenzo | Demetri | Nerdy Student Turned Fighter |
Martin Kove | John Kreese | Ruthless Cobra Kai Leader |
Thomas Ian Griffith | Terry Silver | Cobra Kai’s Wealthy Backer |

Recurring & Guest Stars
- Courtney Henggeler (Amanda LaRusso)
- Vanessa Rubio (Carmen Diaz)
- Peyton List (Tory Nichols)
- Yuji Okumoto (Chozen Toguchi)
Cobra Kai Budget & Production Details
- Estimated Budget Per Season: $8–10 million Read More
- Total Budget (All Seasons): ~$60 million
- Filming Locations: Atlanta, Georgia (standing in for Los Angeles)
- Creators: Josh Heald, Jon Hurwitz, Hayden Schlossberg
The show’s budget increased after moving to Netflix, allowing for bigger fight sequences and international filming (e.g., Okinawa scenes in Season 3).
Cobra Kai’s Popularity & Awards
- IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
- Rotten Tomatoes Avg. Score: 90%
- Awards Won:
- 2021 People’s Choice Award (Best Comedy Show)
- 2022 MTV Movie & TV Award (Best Fight – Hawk vs. Robby)

Future of Cobra Kai: Season 6 & Spin-Offs
Season 6 will be the final season, wrapping up the story with the Sekai Taikai (World Martial Arts Tournament). Additionally, Netflix is developing a spin-off movie centered around Miyagi-Do’s origins.
Final Thoughts
Cobra Kai successfully revived the Karate Kid legacy, mixing humor, drama, and intense karate action. With a stellar cast, engaging plotlines, and high production value, it remains a fan favorite.
Stay tuned for Season 6, expected to release in 2025 on Netflix!
FAQs
Q: Is Cobra Kai ending after Season 6?
A: Yes, Season 6 will be the final season, but spin-offs are in development.
Q: Where was Cobra Kai filmed?
A: Primarily in Atlanta, Georgia, despite being set in Los Angeles.
Q: Who is the main villain in Cobra Kai?
A: John Kreese and Terry Silver are the primary antagonists.
Q: Will Hilary Swank return as Julie Pierce?
A: There haven’t been any formal confirmations yet, but there are rumors.
For more updates, follow Cobra Kai’s official Netflix page!