Who is Johnny in The Karate Kid?
Johnny Lawrence is the main antagonist of the 1984 classic movie, The Karate Kid. He is a high school student and the leader of the Cobra Kai dojo, a karate school that teaches its students to fight with an aggressive and ruthless style. Johnny is portrayed by William Zabka.
Johnny’s Character
Johnny is a bully who uses his karate skills to intimidate and harass other students. He has a strong sense of loyalty to his dojo and will go to great lengths to protect it. He also has a deep-seated rivalry with Daniel LaRusso, the protagonist of the film. Despite his aggressive nature, Johnny does have some redeeming qualities such as his willingness to help out those in need.
Johnny’s Arc
Throughout the course of the movie, Johnny goes through an arc of redemption. After being defeated by Daniel in the All Valley Karate Tournament, he begins to realize that there are more important things than winning at all costs. He eventually turns away from his old ways and helps Daniel defeat their mutual enemy, Kreese. By the end of the movie, Johnny has become a better person and finds peace within himself.