Cobra Kai Star Reflects on Final Days of Filming Series

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Xolo Maridueña, known for his role as Miguel Diaz in Netflix‘s “Cobra Kai,” recently shared heartfelt reflections about his final day on the show’s set. The acclaimed series, spanning six seasons and filming locations from the San Fernando Valley to Okinawa and Barcelona, will conclude with five new episodes dropping on Feb. 13.

In an interview with Variety, Maridueña expressed how special it was to film his final episode directed by William Zabka, who portrays Johnny Lawrence. “It was really cathartic and nice to be with him on my last day, and get to hang out and hug him — and close this chapter with him,” Maridueña said. He emphasized Zabka’s important role throughout the show’s journey, referring to him as “our beacon of light throughout these six seasons.”

Maridueña, 23, began his journey in “Cobra Kai” as a teenager when the show debuted in 2018. Throughout the past seven years, he has had the opportunity to grow not only as an actor but also as a person, crediting Zabka and Ralph Macchio, the original “Karate Kid,” as significant influences in his life. “The biggest honor has been getting to work with these two and realize, kind of silently, that this is the end of this chapter for them as well,” he remarked.

As he prepares for what comes next, Maridueña is considering furthering his martial arts training. He is also focused on developing his skills in theater and cooking. When asked about his dream job post-“Cobra Kai,” he described a desire to honor his ancestry and represent various communities. “The dream job, honestly, is getting to live in this Venn diagram of honoring not only my ancestors, but the folks that I want to represent and show up for,” he stated.

The anticipation for the final episodes of “Cobra Kai” demonstrates the show’s impact on its audience and the career trajectories of its cast. As fans prepare to say goodbye to these beloved characters, Maridueña’s sentiments encapsulate the emotional weight of this concluding chapter.