Get ready to wax on, wax off—because the entire Karate Kid franchise is about to land on Netflix. Starting June 1, 2026, all four films in the iconic action series will be available on the streamer's ad-supported tier, giving subscribers a chance to revisit Daniel LaRusso's journey from bullied teen to martial arts champion.
The collection includes the original 1984 classic The Karate Kid, its two sequels, and the 2010 reboot starring Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith. This marks the first time the movies have been offered on Netflix's ad-supported plan, expanding access for budget-conscious fans. The franchise has bounced in and out of Netflix's library over the years, but each return has proven to be a streaming hit—back in March 2020, the reboot even cracked the platform's top charts.
A Legacy That Keeps Growing
Since Ralph Macchio first stepped into the dojo as Daniel LaRusso, the Karate Kid franchise has become a pop-culture powerhouse. The original film introduced us to Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita), whose wise teachings and unconventional training methods turned a bullied teenager into a champion. The sequels expanded the story, and the 2010 reboot brought a fresh take with Chan as Mr. Han. Together, the films have grossed over $791 million worldwide.
The franchise's resurgence owes much to Cobra Kai, the hit Netflix series that continued the story decades later. All six seasons of Cobra Kai are currently streaming on Netflix, boasting a 94% critics' score and an audience score of 90%. The show earned numerous award nominations and proved that the Karate Kid universe still has plenty of fight left. With a new film installment arriving in 2025, now is the perfect time to catch up on the movies that started it all.
What to Watch While You Wait
If you're counting down the days until June 1, there are plenty of other titles to keep you entertained. Cobra Kai is the obvious choice, but for something a little different, check out Netflix's 'Man on Fire', which has become a new obsession for action fans. Or dive into the sci-fi sports drama Real Steel (2011), starring Hugh Jackman as a former boxer who trains a robot for underground fights. The film grossed over $300 million and offers a similar underdog story with a high-tech twist.
For a lighter take on martial arts, the Kung Fu Panda movies are a perfect fit. Jack Black voices Po, a panda who defies expectations to become the Dragon Warrior. Like Daniel LaRusso, Po's journey is about perseverance, self-belief, and mastering a craft—all while delivering plenty of laughs. The franchise is beloved by fans and critics alike, and its themes of mentorship and growth echo the Karate Kid spirit.
More Streaming Highlights
Netflix's June lineup also includes the departure of Martin Scorsese's Casino on June 1, so make sure to catch that before it goes. For those who prefer superhero action, Netflix's 'The WONDERfools' has been smashing records, proving that the genre is far from tired. And if you're in the mood for a binge-worthy series, 'The Last Ship' on Netflix offers a perfect weekend escape.
Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, the Karate Kid movies are a must-watch. Mark your calendars for June 1, and get ready to strike first, strike hard, and show no mercy—to your streaming queue.
