The iconicKarate Kidfranchise is back with a fresh twist inKarate Kid: Legends,premiering today, June 02, 2025. This latest installment, which has been a long time coming, introduces audiences to titular character Li Fong, portrayed by rising starBen Wang. Set in New York City, the film follows Li, a young martial artist from Beijing, as he navigates personal loss, cultural transitions, and the challenges of a new environment. Guided by mentorsand franchise legacies, Mr. Han (Jackie Chan) and Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio), Li embarks on a journey of self-discovery and resilience.
Ben Wang’s casting marks a significant milestone, as he becomes the first Asian American to lead theKarate Kidseries. His portrayal of Li Fong brings depth and authenticity to the role, reflecting the evolving landscape of representation in Hollywood. Wang’s performance captures the essence of a young man grappling with grief and identity, resonating with both longtime fans and new audiences alike. With so much riding on the star’s shoulders,who exactly is Ben Wang, and where have viewers seen him before?
Karate Kid: Legends
Who Is the New Karate Kid, Ben Wang?
Ben Wang, born on July 16, 2025, in Shanghai, China, and raised in Northfield, Minnesota, has rapidly climbed the ranks of Hollywood’s emerging talents. His early passion for performance saw Wang get involved in local theater productions, where he honed his craft and developed an appreciation for storytelling. He then went on to study musical theater at New York University.
Wang made his breakthrough in the entertainment industry with his role as Jin Wang in the Disney+ seriesAmerican Born Chinese(2023), where he portrayed a high school student navigating cultural identity and adolescence. His performance garnered critical acclaim, showcasing his ability to convey complex emotions with nuance and authenticity.
Where Have Audiences Seen Ben Wang Before?
Before taking on the mantle of the Karate Kid, Ben Wang built an impressive portfolio of roles that showcased his versatility and depth as an actor. In 2021, Wang appeared in an episode ofMacGyveras the character Eli Brown, marking one of his earliest television roles. This was followed by his role as Franklin in 2022’sSex Appeal.Wang then went on to gain attention for his performance as Bo in the Disney+ filmChang Can Dunk(2023), where he played a high school student determined to defy expectations and achieve his basketball dreams.
Wang’s starring role inAmerican Born Chinese(2023) is regarded as his biggest project yet. He starred alongside other esteemed talents, including Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan. The role solidified Wang’s status as a rising star. The series, based on Gene Luen Yang’s graphic novel, delves into themes of identity, acceptance, and cultural heritage, with Wang’s performance earning praise for its uniqueness and emotional resonance.
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In addition to these roles, Wang has lent his voice to an episode ofBob’s Burgersin 2024 and appeared in the reboot ofMean Girls(2024) as Jacob Zheng. His diverse body of work demonstrates a commitment to roles that challenge stereotypes and offer meaningful representation. Looking ahead, Wang is set to appear inThe Long Walk(2025) as Hank Olson and inThe Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping(2026) as Wyatt Callow, further expanding his presence in major film franchises.
How Did Ben Wang Become the New Karate Kid?
Landing the role of Li Fong inKarate Kid: Legendswas a culmination of Ben Wang’s dedication, talent, and connection to the franchise’s legacy. According to reports, Wang’s audition stood out for his deep understanding of the character and his ability to convey Li’s emotional journey authentically.His martial arts background and commitment to the role are reported to have impressed the casting team, leading to his selection as the new face of the franchise.
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Wang has expressed his excitement about joiningtheKarate Kiduniverse, while also crediting co-star Ralph Macchio for providing the creative freedom necessary to shape the character of Li Fong, allowing Wang to bring personal elements to the role. Speaking about how the role is a dream come true for him,Wang said:
“Even today, it is still an OMG moment for me, thinking that I am part of this legendary franchise. I wasn’t born when the original trilogy where Ralph was the Karate Kid, but I was in high school when the adaptation with Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan was in the theaters. I remember thinking ‘wow, it would be so awesome to be part of this movie one day,’ and over a decade later, here I am.”
Ben Wang’s casting not only brings a fresh perspective totheKarate Kidfranchisebut also represents a broader shift towards inclusive storytelling in Hollywood. His portrayal of Li Fong offers a nuanced exploration of identity, resilience, and cultural heritage, aligning with the franchise’s enduring themes while introducing new dimensions to its narrative.
