Cobra Kai, the Netflix series that brought a new generation to the world of The Karate Kid, is closing its dojo for good. At the heart of its emotional farewell is Xolo Maridueña, who has played Miguel Diaz since the show’s debut.
Maridueña’s journey with the series has been nothing short of remarkable, as he grew up alongside his character, transforming from a shy, bullied teen into a confident young man and martial arts champion.
The final season of Cobra Kai is split into three parts, with the last batch of episodes set to release in 2025. Maridueña has spoken openly about the bittersweet nature of wrapping up the series, sharing that his last day on set was especially memorable.
The episode he filmed on his final day was directed by William Zabka, who plays Johnny Lawrence. Maridueña described the experience as cathartic, praising Zabka for being a guiding light throughout the show’s run.
Fans have followed Miguel’s evolution closely, from his early struggles with bullying to his leadership of the Miyagi-Do dojo and his relationships with friends and rivals. Maridueña’s portrayal has earned him widespread acclaim, including a Saturn Award for Best Young Performer.
His connection to the role is deeply personal, and he credits the show’s supportive community and his family for helping him grow both on and off the screen.
As the final episodes roll out, viewers can expect an emotional send-off that honours the legacy of the characters and the friendships formed over six seasons.
Maridueña has expressed pride in what the cast and crew have accomplished, hoping that fans will feel the same sense of warmth and nostalgia when the series comes to an end.
From Karate Kid to Pirate King: Xolo Maridueña’s Next Adventure
While fans say goodbye to Miguel Diaz, Xolo Maridueña is stepping into a bold new role as Portgas D. Ace in Netflix’s One Piece Season 3 . The announcement has generated significant buzz, as Maridueña joins a cast that brings the beloved manga and anime series to life in a live-action format.
Portgas D. Ace is a fan-favourite character known for his fiery personality and powerful abilities. Maridueña’s casting is seen as a perfect fit, given his experience with action roles and his ability to bring depth to complex characters.
Production for One Piece Season 3 is set to begin in Cape Town, South Africa, marking a major transition for Maridueña from the dojo to the deck of a pirate ship.
Xolo Maridueña (Credit: NBC)
In interviews, Maridueña has shared his excitement about the new challenge, noting that stepping into the world of One Piece is both thrilling and intimidating. He has also spoken about his pride in representing diverse stories on screen, a theme that has been central to his career.
His journey from Cobra Kai to One Piece highlights the versatility and ambition that have defined his rise in Hollywood.
Maridueña’s move to One Piece is not just a career milestone but also a sign of the growing crossover between different genres and franchises on Netflix.
As the streaming giant continues to expand its catalogue with adaptations of popular manga and comics, Maridueña’s casting underscores the platform’s commitment to bringing fresh talent to global audiences.
What Cobra Kai’s End Means for Fans and the Future of Martial Arts TV
Cobra Kai’s conclusion marks the end of a significant chapter in martial arts television. The show revitalised the legacy of The Karate Kid, blending nostalgia with modern storytelling and a diverse cast.
Its success has inspired a wave of new martial arts series and spinoffs, proving that there is still a strong appetite for action and drama rooted in classic themes.
For fans, the final season is an opportunity to celebrate the characters and moments that have defined Cobra Kai. Maridueña’s farewell as Miguel Diaz is a poignant reminder of how much the series has grown over the years, both in terms of production quality and emotional depth.
The show’s legacy will likely endure through its influence on future martial arts TV and its impact on a new generation of fans.
Looking ahead, the move of key cast members like Maridueña to other high-profile projects reflects the changing dynamics of streaming entertainment. As actors move between franchises and genres, the boundaries between different types of shows continue to blur.
This trend is likely to shape the future of TV, with more crossovers and collaborations that bring together fans from different worlds.
Cobra Kai’s journey may be coming to an end, but its influence will live on. For Xolo Maridueña, the future holds new adventures and challenges as he steps into the role of Portgas D. Ace and continues to inspire audiences around the world.
The legacy of Cobra Kai and the characters it brought to life will remain a touchstone for fans of martial arts and storytelling alike.
For years, Jack Reacher has lived by a single, unwavering principle: he goes wherever the road takes him, never looking back, never getting attached.
He only intervenes when evil crosses his path, and once the job is done, he vanishes as quickly as he arrived. This rule has defined his character across Lee Child’s novels and the Prime Video series, making him the ultimate lone wolf.
But with the official greenlight of the Neagley spinoff, everything changes. For the first time, Reacher is stepping into the background, taking on a supporting role in someone else’s story.
The announcement, made at the Prime Video Presents: Trailblazers event, confirmed that Maria Sten will reprise her role as Frances Neagley, with Alan Ritchson’s Reacher appearing as a side character.
This shift marks a major departure from Reacher’s established character. In the books, Neagley is one of the few recurring figures, but she never takes the lead, and Reacher never plays second fiddle. The spinoff series is not only a tribute to Neagley’s popularity but a bold move that redefines Reacher’s role in his own universe.
Reacher’s decision to help Neagley is a subtle but powerful indication that he is slowly bending his own rules. By willingly entering her world and temporarily putting his freedom on hold, he is showing a level of attachment and loyalty that is unprecedented in his journey.
This evolution hints at a deeper emotional arc for Reacher, one that could eventually see him settle down or form lasting bonds.
Neagley’s Turn: From Sidekick to Star
Neagley’s spinoff series will follow her as a private investigator in Chicago , where she is rocked by the mysterious death of a close friend. Convinced that the official story is a cover-up, Neagley launches her own investigation, using the skills she learned from Reacher and her time in the 110 Special Investigators.
The new series promises to give Neagley the spotlight she has never had before. In the books, she is often described as similar to Reacher, capable, deadly, and emotionally guarded, but her story is rarely explored in depth.
The spinoff will allow her to be more fully realized, showcasing her emotional evolution and giving viewers a chance to see her as a complex protagonist.
Reacher (Credit: Amazon Prime Video)
Maria Sten has spoken about the significance of this role, noting that Neagley’s journey is both personal and cathartic. The series will explore her backstory, her relationships, and her struggles, making her more than just a supporting character.
The spinoff also introduces a new ensemble cast , including Greyston Holt as Detective Hudson Riley, Jasper Jones as Keno, and Adeline Rudolph in an undisclosed role. These new characters will help expand Neagley’s world and add fresh dynamics to the series.
Neagley’s story is set to be a blend of action, mystery, and emotional depth, offering fans a new perspective on the Reacher universe. By focusing on Neagley’s quest for justice , the series will explore themes of loyalty, loss, and the enduring impact of friendship.
What This Means for the Reacher Universe
The Neagley spinoff is more than just a new show; it is a sign of the evolving Reacher universe. By allowing Reacher to break his most sacred rule, the series is opening the door to new possibilities and deeper character development.
For fans of the books, this shift is a major change. In Lee Child’s novels, Reacher is always the central figure, and Neagley’s appearances are limited. The spinoff series, however, gives Neagley the chance to shine, offering a fresh take on her character and her relationship with Reacher.
The spinoff also highlights the growing trend of expanding successful franchises with spinoffs and new perspectives. By focusing on Neagley, the series can explore new stories and themes while still honoring the legacy of the original show.
As the Reacher universe continues to grow, fans can expect more surprises and deeper character arcs. The Neagley spinoff is a bold step that redefines what it means to be a Reacher story, and it sets the stage for even more exciting developments in the future.
