Jackie Chan Reflects on Career And Returns in Karate Kid: Legends Alongside Ralph Macchio And Ben Wang

Action legend Jackie Chan is making a return to the beloved Karate Kid franchise in Karate Kid: Legends, set to hit theatres on May 30. Starring alongside Ralph Macchio and rising star Ben Wang, Chan reprises his role as Mr. Han — a character he first portrayed in the 2010 remake of The Karate Kid where he mentored a young Jaden Smith.

In a recent interview with Extra, Chan opened up about his journey in the film industry, reflecting on the challenges he faced early in his career. He revealed that movies like The Karate Kid and Rocky inspired him to persevere through difficult times.

"I began as a stuntman, and it was a tough life. I almost gave up until one day, a director gave me a chance. I showed him my stunts, and that’s how my acting career started," Chan said. "Luckily, I didn’t give up. I still keep training. That makes me who I am today."

Chan also spoke about the deeper values the new Karate Kid film aims to promote. He shared that this movie teaches you to respect life, respect parents, respect war, respect the world, respect your country, humanity, water, and many other things.

Despite being in the industry for decades, Chan remains committed to performing his own stunts. When asked whether injuries occur on set, he replied candidly that everyone gets hurt. He is used to it now. He can deal with it on set, but once he’s home, it can be crippling.

In a separate conversation with PEOPLE magazine, Chan addressed his perceived return to Hollywood. “I never left,” he stated. “There just wasn’t the right script for me. I want to do something different. I don’t want to keep playing the same characters.”

Karate Kid: Legends marks a significant reunion for fans, with Ralph Macchio returning as Daniel LaRusso, the role that catapulted him to fame in the original 1984 classic. The addition of Ben Wang adds a fresh dynamic to the evolving legacy of the franchise. Chan reprises his role of Mr. Han from The Karate Kid, in which he acted as a mentor to a young Jaden Smith.

As anticipation builds, Karate Kid: Legends promises to blend nostalgia, action, and a renewed message of respect and resilience: values Jackie Chan has embodied throughout his legendary career.