80s icon who mounted major comeback to get star on Walk of Fame

Actor and director Ralph Macchio, best known as Daniel LaRusso from the original “The Karate Kid” films and Netflix’s hit series “Cobra Kai,” will be cemented in Hollywood history with a star on the Walk of Fame.

Macchio, 63, will receive the honor Wednesday in the category of Television at 6633 Hollywood Blvd., the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce announced.

Guest speakers will include actors Tamlyn Tomita, who co-starred with Macchio in “The Karate Kid Part II” (1986) and William Zabka, who plays LaRusso's nemesis-turned-ally Johnny Lawrence in the “Karate Kid” and “Cobra Kai” series.

Macchio’s acting career began in 1980 and, outside of the "The Karate Kid" series and reboot, has also included key roles in Francis Ford Coppola’s “The Outsiders” (1983), “Crossroads” (1986), “My Cousin Vinny” (1992), and TV series such as “Ugly Betty” and “The Deuce.”

While he consistently acted, produced and directed after his last "Karate Kid" film, 1989's "The Karate Kid Part III," the runaway success of "Cobra Kai" has rebooted Macchio's career, along with those of Zabka and co-star Martin Kove, among others.

Fittingly, Macchio’s star will be placed next to that of his sensei from “The Karate Kid” series, the late actor Pat Morita.

“It is a beautiful tribute to their legacy together and a testament to Ralph’s remarkable career that has inspired generations,” said Ana Martinez, producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremonies.

Macchio’s star will be the Walk of Fame’s 2,795th.

Season 6 of “Cobra Kai” is currently streaming on Netflix.