Daniel LaRusso — The Karate Kid Character Profile

About Daniel LaRusso

Italian-American teen who learns karate from Mr. Miyagi to defend himself against bullies.

Daniel LaRusso — Character Profile

Alignment

Hero

Species

Human

Abilities

Karate mastery, Crane kick, Leadership, Resilience

• Strength: 7/10
• Intelligence: 7/10
• Charisma: 8/10
• Morality: 9/10
• Influence: 8/10

Quick Facts about Daniel LaRusso

Nationality

American

Daniel LaRusso appears in 5 titles

• The Karate Kid (1984)
• The Karate Kid Part II (1986) — character page
• The Karate Kid Part III (1989) — character page
• Cobra Kai (2018) — character page
• Karate Kid: Legends (2025) — character page

Character Facts

Played by

Ralph Macchio

Appears in

The Karate Kid (1984)

Role

Protagonist

Relationships (3)

• Daniel LaRusso — Professional Mentor — Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita)

  Daniel seeks martial arts instruction from the eccentric handyman to defend himself.

• Daniel LaRusso — Romantic Love Interest — Ali Mills (Elisabeth Shue)

  Ali becomes Daniel's first romantic connection and source of motivation.

• Daniel LaRusso — Conflict Rivals — Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka)

  Daniel and Johnny are primary antagonists who clash physically and emotionally.

Explore the full interactive character relationship map of The Karate Kid

More characters from The Karate Kid

• Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita)
• Ali Mills (Elisabeth Shue)
• Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka)
• Freddy (Israel Juarbe)
• John Kreese (Martin Kove)
• Referee (Pat E. Johnson)
• Jerry (Larry B. Scott)
• Alan (Tom Fridley)
• Ring Announcer (Bruce Malmuth)
• Lucille LaRusso (Randee Heller)
• Bobby (Ron Thomas)
• Mr. Mills (William Bassett)