Ben Wang is the subsequent Karate Child.

Wang, who beforehand starred reverse Michelle Yeoh within the Disney+ sequence “American Born Chinese language,” landed the sought-after position after a worldwide search that noticed hundreds of younger actors from across the globe vie for the title position in Sony’s new “Karate Child” film, which unites Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio. Per studio insiders, Wang delivered a standout audition efficiency that demonstrated his deep connection to the character.

The actor, who can also be fluent in Mandarin, is expert throughout many types of martial arts, together with Karate, Wing Chun/Kung Fu, Gumdo, Kempo and Taekwando.

Chan and Macchio, who introduced the casting search by way of a video in November, will reprise their iconic “Karate Child” franchise characters within the newest entry to the sequence from Sony Footage.

Plot particulars are nonetheless beneath wraps on the brand new film, however Macchio will as soon as once more play Daniel LaRusso from the unique “Karate Child” movie trilogy and the sequence “Cobra Kai,” whereas Chan will return to the position of Mr. Han, a Kung Fu grasp from the 2010 remake film starring Jaden Smith.

The movie shall be directed by Jonathan Entwistle, the creator and director of Netflix’s “I Am Not Okay With This” and “The Finish of the F—ing World.” “Peter Rabbit” scribe Rob Lieber will pen the screenplay, and Karen Rosenfelt will produce.

Sony Footage will launch the movie in theaters on Dec. 13, 2024.

The “Karate Child” movies have earned $618 million globally, and spawned the Emmy-nominated Netflix sequence “Cobra Kai.” The sequence, created by Josh Heald, Jon Hurwitz and Hayden Schlossberg, takes place a long time after the occasions of the unique films, reigniting a rivalry between Daniel and Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka).

The Hollywood Reporter was first to report the information.