Jackie Chan’s return in Karate Kid Legends box office has not matched expectations, as the film struggled to perform strongly despite the enduring popularity of the franchise and recent momentum from Netflix’s Cobra Kai. Debuting in theaters in May, the movie faced tough competition and fell short of projected earnings.
The Franchise Comeback Meets Stiff Competition
Returning to the big screen, Jackie Chan reprises his role as Mr. Han in Karate Kid: Legends. This film marks a significant crossover, bringing together elements from the 2010 Karate Kid movie, which starred Chan, and the original films. Ralph Macchio also appears again as Daniel LaRusso, following his successful run in Netflix’s Cobra Kai series, which had recently concluded.
Despite the favorable timing, with the Karate Kid brand enjoying renewed visibility thanks to Cobra Kai, the new release arrived during a particularly competitive stretch at the box office. Lilo & Stitch continued to dominate after its release, pulling in audiences and holding on to top spot thanks to strong momentum. Alongside it, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, headlined by Tom Cruise, remained a major draw, further intensifying the competition for moviegoers.
Disappointing Box Office Performance
Industry projections had anticipated a domestic opening weekend in the $25 million to $30 million range for Karate Kid: Legends. However, the film ultimately managed only $21 million domestically, with an additional $26 million overseas. Despite these returns meaning the film turned a profit in its first weekend, the numbers represented a clear underperformance given the stature of the franchise and its stars.
Much of the blame for the disappointing results has been placed on the formidable competition. Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, for example, had broken multiple records with over $613 million in just two weeks, setting a high bar for every other film in release. In the same period, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning held strong as Tom Cruise’s much-publicized farewell to his character also drew large crowds. These established blockbusters siphoned attention, leaving Karate Kid: Legends struggling to find its audience despite franchise loyalty and recognizable faces.
Jackie Chan’s Impact Remains Undiminished
Although he is no longer at the peak of his stardom from the 1990s and 2000s, Jackie Chan’s status as a cinematic legend is firmly intact. Known worldwide for performing his own stunts and infusing action with comedic touches, Chan’s return to the role of Mr. Han marked fifteen years since his appearance in the 2010 Karate Kid alongside Jaden Smith. His ongoing appeal remains a major draw for both longtime fans and new audiences.
The effect of Jackie Chan on set was tangible during production. Ben Wong, the film’s young star, shared recollections of the cast and crew’s excitement when Chan was present, providing an example of the enduring influence Jackie Chan commands among those working alongside him.
We were working up in Montreal, Canada, and we had this amazing French-Canadian crew. But the moment Jackie shows up, they’re like, running around, going, ‘Jac-kie is here! Jac-kie is here!’, bumping into things like Keystone Cops. All that cool French-Canadian swagger melted away the second Jackie steps on set.
—Ben Wong, Actor
Jackie Chan’s legacy as an action star who pushed boundaries, even at the expense of personal injury, continues to inspire today’s audiences and filmmakers alike. He represents a unique era of Hollywood film that is becoming increasingly rare, sharing this legacy with other enduring stars like Tom Cruise.
What’s Next for the Karate Kid Franchise and Its Stars?
As Karate Kid: Legends screens in cinemas across the USA, industry observers are reflecting on its mediocre box office showing as a case of timing and tough competition rather than franchise fatigue or a loss of star power. Ralph Macchio’s continued involvement, coupled with the earlier success of Cobra Kai—which notably redeemed William Zabka’s Johnny Lawrence character—underscores the rich tapestry of stories that continue to attract fan interest.
While the latest film did not reach financial heights expected for the franchise, it has reaffirmed the resilience and cultural impact of figures like Jackie Chan, Ralph Macchio, and the whole cast, ensuring The Karate Kid remains an enduring part of Hollywood lore. Moving forward, the franchise is likely to reassess its approach, mindful of shifting viewer trends and the crowded theatrical marketplace, as it seeks to capture the same magic that made earlier entries a household name.
