In a new podcast interview, iconic actor Martin Kove delves into his legendary career, touching on his roles in *Cobra Kai*, *The Karate Kid*, and his passion for revitalizing the Western genre. Known for portraying the menacing John Kreese in the *Karate Kid* franchise, Kove’s recent success on Netflix’s hit series *Cobra Kai* has brought his character back into the cultural spotlight, much to the delight of long-time fans.
Kove, who has portrayed Kreese since 1984, reveals the complex evolution of his character and the ways *Cobra Kai* has redefined villainy for a new generation. He speaks candidly about revisiting the role after decades, bringing new depth to Kreese while still honoring the essence of the original character. “What I love about *Cobra Kai* is it gives Kreese a human side, a reason for his behavior,” Kove shares. “It’s not just black and white anymore. He’s a more layered character, and that makes it so much more rewarding to play.”
Beyond *Cobra Kai*, Kove also discusses his involvement in *Karate Kid: Legends*, a new animated series set to expand the *Karate Kid* universe. While details are scarce, Kove hints at the intriguing direction the franchise is taking, with more focus on the rich mythology of martial arts and its impact on young people.
Kove also touches on his long-time love for Westerns, explaining how he is working on projects to bring the genre back to its roots. Drawing from his experience in classics like *Rambo: First Blood* and *The Professional*, Kove talks about how the Western has evolved and what modern filmmakers can learn from the genre’s golden age.
Fans are excited to hear from the actor, whose career continues to thrive across multiple generations and media platforms.
