Joshua Jackson is prepared to make his eagerly anticipated comeback to the world of cinema.
A source has confirmed that Joshua Jackson, known for his role in Dawson’s Creek, will join Ralph Macchio, Jackie Chan, and new lead Ben Wang in the upcoming installment of the Karate Kid franchise, scheduled for release on Dec. 13.
While his specific role in the project remains undisclosed, this marks his return to film since his appearance in Sky in 2015. The news was first reported.
The outlet reported that the new film will shift the story to the East Coast and “center around a teenager from China (Wang) who discovers strength and guidance through martial arts and the mentorship of one or more tough yet wise mentors.”
The film directed by Jonathan Entwistle features a screenplay penned by Rob Lieber and will be produced by Karen Rosenfelt.
News of Jackson’s casting follows the announcement made nearly five months ago confirming the return of Machchio and Chan to reprise their roles in the upcoming project. Alongside this announcement came the revelation of a global open casting call for the next Karate Kid.
Wang was revealed as the lead in early February after delivering a standout audition showcasing his profound connection to the character, as reported.
Over the past three decades, the Karate Kid films have amassed a global box office revenue of $618 million. In 2021, Macchio expressed to PEOPLE his admiration for seeing the Karate Kid universe continue to thrive through Cobra Kai, describing it as “really cool.”
“Kids see the show and then tell their parents, ‘Hey, you should check this out. It’s really cool.’ To go through the ebbs and flows of popularity for 36-plus years and now be in a place where parents, kids, and even grandparents are sharing the same excitement is really special,” saidold.
Of being able to still look young on screen since Karate Kid’s 1984 premiere Macchsaidold,
“Listen — I blame my parents. They both look very young for their age. I have a youthful energy about me for some reason. A healthy lifestyle doesn’t hurt. But I think I’ve just gotten lucky in the gene department.”
Jackson rose to prominence with his breakout role as Pacey Witter on Dawson’s Creek. His television repertoire includes notable appearances in Fringe, The Affair, Little Fires Everywhere, Dr. Death, and Fatal Attraction.
On the silver screen, he has showcased his talent in the Mighty Ducks movies, Cruel Intentions, and The Skulls.