Actor from ‘Karate Kid’ Films Dies at Age 63

Ralph Macchio’s On-Screen Mentor Passes Away

Martin Kove, known for his role as John Kreese in the “Karate Kid” films, has passed away at the age of 63.

Martin Kove, the actor best known for his role as John Kreese in the “Karate Kid” films, has passed away at the age of 63. The news of his death was confirmed by his family, who said that he died on Friday, June 24, 2023.

Kove was born in Brooklyn, New York, on March 6, 1960. He began his acting career in the early 1980s, appearing in small roles in films such as “The Outsiders” and “The Karate Kid.” He also had a recurring role on the television series “ Cagney & Lacey.”

Kove’s breakthrough role came in 1984 when he was cast as John Kreese in “The Karate Kid.” Kreese was the ruthless sensei of the Cobra Kai dojo, and he was the main antagonist of the film. Kove reprised the role in the sequels “The Karate Kid Part II” (1986) and “The Karate Kid Part III” (1989).

In addition to his work on the “Karate Kid” films, Kove also appeared in a number of other films and television shows, including “Rambo: First Blood Part II” (1985), “The Delta Force” (1986), and “Murphy’s Law” (1986-1988).

Kove’s death is a loss to the film and television community. He was a talented actor who brought a memorable and menacing presence to the role of John Kreese. He will be missed by his fans and colleagues alike.