Fans of the classic 1984 film “The Karate Kid” have a rapidly closing window to stream the beloved martial arts drama. As of February 12, 2026, the original trilogy – “The Karate Kid” (1984), “The Karate Kid Part II” (1986), and “The Karate Kid Part III” (1989) – along with the 2010 remake, are slated to leave Netflix on February 28, 2026, according to reports.
The film, directed by John G. Avildsen and starring Ralph Macchio as Daniel LaRusso, captivated audiences with its underdog story of a teenager learning karate from the enigmatic Mr. Miyagi (played by the late Pat Morita) to defend himself against bullies from the Cobra Kai dojo. The film’s success, grossing over $130.8 million against an $8 million budget, cemented its place in cinematic history and spawned a lasting franchise.
While the departure from Netflix marks the end of an era for convenient access to the original films, fans will still be able to revisit the world of Daniel LaRusso, and Mr. Miyagi. Hulu will add the first three “Karate Kid” movies to its streaming library starting April 1, 2025, offering a new home for the iconic films. However, this means fans will need to navigate multiple streaming services to experience the full breadth of the franchise, as the spin-off series “Cobra Kai” remains a Netflix exclusive.
The enduring appeal of “The Karate Kid” is evident in its critical acclaim. Roger Ebert awarded the original film a perfect four-star rating, praising its acting and the developing relationship between the young student and his wise mentor. The film currently holds an 81% approval rating from critics and an 83% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, with reviewers highlighting the strength of the performances and the film’s emotional core.
The franchise’s resurgence in recent years is largely attributed to the success of “Cobra Kai,” which concluded its sixth and final season on Netflix earlier in 2025. The series, created by Jon Hurwitz, Hayden Schlossberg, and Josh Heald, has breathed new life into the characters and storylines established in the original films, attracting a new generation of fans while satisfying longtime devotees. The creators are now turning their attention to another 1980s classic, with early talks underway to develop a new “Knight Rider” movie.
Despite the availability of the films on Hulu, the impending removal from Netflix underscores the ever-shifting landscape of streaming services and the challenges facing fans seeking access to their favorite content. The move comes as streaming platforms increasingly prioritize exclusive content and adjust their libraries to maintain subscriber engagement.
For those wishing to relive the nostalgia of the original “Karate Kid” films before they disappear from Netflix, the streaming window closes on February 28, 2026. Fans can then look to Hulu, starting April 1, 2025, to continue their journey with Daniel LaRusso and Mr. Miyagi, though they’ll need a separate subscription to catch up on the continuing saga in “Cobra Kai” on Netflix.
The legacy of “The Karate Kid” extends beyond the screen, inspiring countless individuals with its themes of perseverance, discipline, and the importance of finding a mentor. The film’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message and its ability to resonate with audiences across generations.
