Who would have thought that a sequel series to “The Karate Kid,” released 34 years later on YouTube Premium and focusing on the bully from the original movie, would become one of Netflix’s biggest hits? Six years after “Cobra Kai” premiered, it’s still thriving. This show has revitalized the franchise with a mix of ’80s nostalgia, moral lessons, and wild storylines reminiscent of “Riverdale.” However, not every season has hit the mark equally.
Initially, “Cobra Kai” was a standout in YouTube’s original programming lineup, which never really took off. Despite being on a struggling platform, the show garnered attention. Bringing back many original “Karate Kid” actors and treating the old movie with sincerity piqued curiosity, earning critical praise. When Netflix picked up the show for Season 3, including the first two seasons from YouTube, “Cobra Kai” quickly soared in popularity.
Since then, the show has expanded significantly, bringing back almost every actor from the “Karate Kid” series. While ratings and viewership have remained high, it’s become easier to see which seasons were the strongest and which ones were held back by overly nostalgic elements.
Let’s review and rank each season to see what made the best ones stand out.
6. Season 6, Part 1
Season 6 isn’t complete yet, but we can evaluate the first part, consisting of five episodes. Unfortunately, this segment is the weakest of the series. The storylines feel repetitive, and some conflicts seem forced. Daniel and Johnny clash again, Tory is drawn back to the dark side, and Hawk and Demetri have another fallout. John Kreese’s side story is particularly confusing, though a new villain, Kwon Jae-Sung, played by Brandon H. Lee, adds some excitement. Overall, it feels directionless despite the upcoming tournament arc, and Miguel’s character doesn’t get the spotlight he deserves.
5. Season 4
Season 4, while solid, feels slow and uneventful compared to the high stakes of previous seasons. It’s caught between the dramatic finale of Season 3 and the big climax of Season 5. Despite its slower pace, there are highlights, like Thomas Ian Griffith’s return as Terry Silver and the thrilling All-Valley Tournament finale. Hawk’s victory and the final matches are some of the best moments in the show, but overall, this season lacks the excitement of others.
4. Season 3
Season 3, the first on Netflix, balances fun and drama well. Miguel’s recovery is a strong emotional anchor, and the show explores his relationship with Johnny meaningfully. Daniel’s trip to Okinawa adds depth, and bringing back characters from “The Karate Kid Part II” is a nice touch. However, Kreese’s exaggerated Vietnam flashbacks and the over-the-top finale push the series into absurd territory for the first time. Despite these flaws, the season’s blend of drama and nostalgia works well.
3. Season 1
Season 1 is simple and focused, telling the story of a flawed sensei and his promising student. William Zabka and Xolo Maridueña have great chemistry, making Miguel’s journey from underdog to hero compelling. The season doesn’t rely heavily on “Karate Kid” nostalgia, focusing instead on character development and personal growth. While later seasons have more spectacle, Season 1’s straightforward storytelling and heartfelt moments set a solid foundation.
2. Season 5
Season 5 is a strong contender for the top spot. It’s the biggest and most exciting season, with Kreese’s prison storyline, Miguel’s journey to Mexico, and an epic team-up of old “Karate Kid” villains. The season finale, with Chozen’s standout performance and thrilling fights, is one of the best. Even with many characters and storylines, it manages to keep everything cohesive and entertaining.
1. Season 2
Season 2 blends teen drama, nostalgia, and karate action perfectly. The conflicts are intense, with Johnny and Daniel’s rivalry and the struggles of their students creating engaging drama. Kreese’s return adds tension without becoming too cartoonish. The season’s climax, a school brawl with high stakes and emotional impact, remains unmatched. This is the season that defined “Cobra Kai” and set the stage for its continued success.
Overall, “Cobra Kai” has had its ups and downs, but its unique mix of nostalgia, drama, and action has made it a standout series. Whether it’s the heartfelt moments or the wild karate battles, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
