William Zabka

William Zabka Profile Photo

Characters played by William Zabka

Johnny Lawrence — Cobra Kai (2018)

A formerly wealthy man reduced to poverty and alcoholism in Reseda. Estranged from his son Robby, he reopens Cobra Kai to defend and train his neighbor Miguel Diaz, reigniting his old rivalry with Daniel LaRusso.

Johnny Lawrence — Karate Kid: Legends (2025)

Former high school bully turned complex martial artist and rival to Daniel.

Scott McCall — The Equalizer (1985)

Briefly appears, possibly a civilian or minor associate.

Johnny Lawrence — The Karate Kid (1984)

Skilled karate student and Daniel's primary high school rival.

Johnny Lawrence — The Karate Kid Part II (1986)

Skilled but troubled Cobra Kai student and Daniel's initial rival.

Rick — Hot Tub Time Machine (2010)

Loyal but dim-witted friend of Lou in the 1986 timeline.

Greg — Just One of the Guys (1985)

Greg is a bodybuilder who leads a group of school bullies and repeatedly creates trouble for Terry and Rick. His jealousy culminates at the senior prom, where he starts a fight with Rick. Rick ultimately defeats him in front of the entire class, ending Greg's dominance in the confrontation.

Milton Malcolm — Where Hope Grows (2014)

Calvin's friend who struggles with personal turmoil after discovering his wife's infidelity. His drunk driving leads to a fatal accident that profoundly impacts Calvin and Produce.

Jack — National Lampoon's European Vacation (1985)

European acquaintance interacting with the family.

Chas — Back to School (1986)

A competitive diver and jock who antagonizes Jason and tries to impress Valerie. During the championship dive meet, he fakes a cramp out of spite after losing to Jason, prompting the coach to recruit Thornton as a last-minute replacement to save the team's chances.

Greg Larsen — Python (2000)

Deputy sheriff investigating the crash and missing persons, bridges law enforcement and civilians.

Ruben — Shootfighter II (1996)

Shingo's loyal friend and fellow fighter manipulated into deadly tournaments.

Career Overview

William Zabka has 57 screen credits in a career dating back to 1984. Their work spans 10 cinematic universes — most prominently The Karate Kid with 3 titles. Signature works include Cobra Kai, The Karate Kid, Where Hope Grows. Explore the interactive character relationship maps on each title page to trace how their roles connect across franchises.

Personal Facts

Known For
Acting
Gender
male
Known Credits
57
Birth Date
1965-10-20
Birth Place
New York City, New York, USA

Known For

Associated Universes

Universe traveler — spans 10 universes

Frequent Collaborators

Credits

Content sources

Related entry on Wikidata (Q966693), public domain (CC0).