‘Cobra Kai’ Star Xolo Maridueña Praises ‘Beacon of Light’ William Zabka Ahead of Final Five Episodes

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In its six seasons, “Cobra Kai” has traversed a wide range of locations – from the San Fernando Valley to Okinawa, Barcelona, and back again. However, the core of this series has consistently revolved around the dynamic between Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka) and his initial student, Miguel Diaz (Xolo Maridueña).

In a chat with EbMaster, Maridueña shared that his last day on set for the final five episodes had an extra touch of magic because it was under the guidance of Zabka, who he often calls “our guiding light over these past six seasons.

On my final day, it was incredibly comforting and pleasant to spend time with him. We got to relax together and even share a warm embrace. In doing so, I could bring this phase of my life to a close alongside him, as he was the person I encountered prior to securing the job. – Maridueña

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Spending time with him on my last day was incredibly healing and enjoyable. We managed to unwind together and even give each other a hug, thus ending this chapter of my life with him, since he was the one I met before I landed the role. – Maridueña

Xavier Maridueña, who’s previously appeared in “Parenthood” and “Blue Beetle,” was just a teenager when “Cobra Kai” first premiered in 2018. Over the past seven years, he’s grown significantly, an expansion he attributes partly to the guidance of his co-stars, William Zabka and Ralph Macchio, who played the iconic roles of Johnny Lawrence and Daniel LaRusso in “The Karate Kid.

It’s been a tremendous privilege to collaborate with these two individuals, and I’ve come to understand, in a quiet way, that this phase is concluding for them too,” Maridueña expressed. “Hence, it’s been truly rewarding to have them as guiding influences, like sturdy tent poles, teaching me how to navigate life effectively.

Maridueña expresses interest in furthering his martial arts training, but he’s also got other goals in mind such as delving into theater and improving his culinary skills. So, after a hit series like “Cobra Kai,” one might wonder what his ultimate career aspiration could be?

Ideally, my dream job encompasses a unique intersection where I can not only pay tribute to my ancestors but also stand for and champion groups such as Angelenos, young men, Latinos, and other communities whose narratives I’ve been privileged to share.

The final five episodes of “Cobra Kai” drop on Netflix on Feb. 13.

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2025-02-13 00:16