Cobra Kai: A Journey of Growth, Friendship, and Legacy
“Cobra Kai,” the beloved continuation of “The Karate Kid” series, has taken viewers on a global journey, from the San Fernando Valley to Okinawa, Barcelona, and back. Yet, at its core, the show has always been deeply rooted in the transformative relationship between Johnny Lawrence (played by William Zabka) and his first student, Miguel Diaz (played by Xolo Maridueña). Over six seasons, their bond has grown from one of mentorship to a profound friendship, becoming the emotional heart of the series. Now, as the show approaches its finale, the cast and crew are reflecting on the memories and lessons that have shaped their journey. For Xolo Maridueña, who brought Miguel Diaz to life, his final days on set were made especially meaningful by the opportunity to work with Zabka, the man he affectionately calls “our beacon of light throughout these six seasons.”
In an interview with Variety, Maridueña shared that his last day on set for the final five episodes was both cathartic and emotional. The episode being filmed was directed by Zabka, a moment that held special significance for Maridueña. “It was really cathartic and nice to be with him on my last day, and get to hang out and hug him — and close this chapter with him,” he said. Their relationship, both on and off screen, has been a cornerstone of the show. Maridueña revealed that Zabka was the first person he met before even booking the role, a fact that underscores the deep connection they’ve built over the years. For Maridueña, who was just a teenager when “Cobra Kai” first premiered in 2018, the experience of growing up alongside Zabka and another legend, Ralph Macchio (Daniel LaRusso), has been nothing short of life-changing.
Maridueña, who has also appeared in projects like “Parenthood” and the upcoming “Blue Beetle,” has spent seven years learning and growing not only as an actor but as a person. Much of his personal and professional development, he credits to Zabka and Macchio. “The biggest honor has been getting to work with these two and realize, kind of silently, that this is the end of this chapter for them as well,” he reflected. For Maridueña, Zabka and Macchio have been more than just co-stars; they’ve been role models, teaching him valuable lessons about life, humility, and resilience. Their influence has been a guiding force in his journey, both on and off the screen.
As “Cobra Kai” prepares to conclude with its final five episodes (set to drop on Netflix on February 13), Maridueña is looking ahead to the next chapter of his career. While he remains open to continuing his martial arts training, he also has other aspirations. Theater and learning how to cook better are high on his list of priorities, showcasing his desire to explore new passions and grow beyond his role as Miguel Diaz. But when it comes to his “dream job,” Maridueña’s vision is deeply rooted in his identity and heritage. “The dream job, honestly, is getting to live in this Venn diagram of honoring not only my ancestors, but the folks that I want to represent and show up for,” he said. “Whether that be Angelenos, or young men, or Latinos, or all of these other stories that I’ve gotten the chance to tell.”
For Maridueña, storytelling is not just about entertaining; it’s about representation and connection. His desire to honor his ancestors and represent the diverse communities he belongs to speaks to a deeper purpose that drives him as an artist. “Cobra Kai” has given him a platform to tell meaningful stories, and he hopes to continue that legacy in his future projects. Whether through acting, theater, or other creative endeavors, Maridueña is committed to using his voice to uplift and inspire others, just as his mentors have done for him.
As fans prepare to say goodbye to “Cobra Kai,” they can take comfort in knowing that the lessons and bonds forged throughout the series will live on, both for the characters and the actors who brought them to life. For Maridueña, the experience of playing Miguel Diaz has been a defining chapter in his life, one that has shaped him in ways he will carry with him forever. And as he looks to the future, fans can’t help but feel excited to see where his journey takes him next. After all, as Johnny Lawrence would say, “No mercy” — and Xolo Maridueña is certainly showing no mercy when it comes to pursuing his dreams and making an impact.
