Creators Use AI to Revive Mr. Miyagi in Cobra Kai Final Season

The final season of 'Cobra Kai' recently concluded, marking the end of a beloved series that evolved from its beginnings on YouTube Red to a global hit on Netflix. Creators Josh Heald, Jon Hurwitz, and Hayden Schlossberg utilized advanced deepfake technology to bring back the iconic character Mr. Miyagi, portrayed posthumously using a body double and AI-generated visuals, allowing Ralph Macchio's character, Daniel LaRusso, to have a heartfelt farewell with his mentor. Despite the emotional tribute, fans expressed disappointment over the absence of Hilary Swank's character, Julie Pierce, although the creators hinted at the possibility of exploring her story in future projects. The series has been praised for its complex themes of redemption, parenthood, and the duality of good and evil, resonating with audiences who grew up with the original 'Karate Kid' films. As the creators reflect on the show's journey, they emphasize its profound emotional authenticity and character development, which have set high expectations for storytelling in the genre. 'Cobra Kai' has left a significant legacy, ensuring its place in pop culture history.