The Karate Kid – The 1989 animated series

November 3, 2023

In 1989, the world of animation welcomed something new that would enrich the panorama of animated series dedicated to martial arts: "The Karate Kid". This cartoon television series, produced by DiC Entertainment and Saban Entertainment, is based on the characters from the 1984 film of the same name created by Robert Mark Kamen.

The animated series, consisting of 13 episodes, follows the story of Daniel LaRusso and his mentor, Mr. Miyagi, exploring new adventures that break away from the narrative confines of the films. With direction by Larry Houston and character design by Fred Carrillo and Dale Hendrickson, “The Karate Kid” brings to the small screen the essence of karate and the values of courage and friendship that have made the films of the saga iconic.

The soundtrack, composed by Haim Saban and Shuki Levy, helps create the atmosphere for each episode, immersing the viewer in a journey that rightly goes beyond simple physical confrontation, touching on themes of personal growth and inner discovery.

The series opens with episodes such as "Adventure in the Amazon" and "The Great Victory", which see Daniel and Mr. Miyagi grappling with challenges that go beyond the competition carpet, inserting elements of mystery and adventure that enrich the plot and the character of the characters. In Italy, the series was broadcast on TMC during "The Lion Trophy Show" and subsequently repeated on Videomusic, consolidating the bond with a young audience passionate about martial arts.

The original voice actors, Joey Dedio for Daniel LaRusso and Robert Ito for Mr. Miyagi, together with John Kassir and Larry Kenne, give voice to a cast of characters who move in a world where karate becomes a metaphor for life and an instrument of knowledge .

“The Karate Kid” fits into a context in which animation begins to experiment with stories inspired by cinema, creating a dialogue between the two arts that enriches both. The animated series, despite a short television life, has left its mark in the hearts of fans, demonstrating how martial arts can be a vehicle for stories of education and inspiration.

In conclusion, “The Karate Kid” represents an example of how animation can expand the narrative horizons of a franchise, offering fans a new perspective on beloved stories and characters, and at the same time introducing new viewers to a universe full of lessons . and adventures.

Data Sheet

Original title The Karate Kid
Original language US
Country United States
Author Robert Mark Kamen (original movie characters), Dan DiStefano (series developer)
Regia Larry Houston
character design Fred Carrillo, Dale Hendrickson
Artistic direction Vic Dal Chele, Russ Heat
Music Haim Saban, Shuki Levy
Studio DiC Entertainment, Saban Entertainment
Network NBC
1st TV 9 September 1989 - 16 December 1989
Episodes 13 (complete)
Episode duration 60 -70 minutes
Italian network TMC (first TV during The Lion Trophy Show[1]), Videomusic2
Italian episodes 13 (complete)
Italian dialogues Monica Di Fonzo
Italian dubbing studio CDA – Associated Dubbing Artists Cooperative