More than four decades after “The Karate Kid” debuted, actor Ralph Macchio is once again stepping into the role of Daniel LaRusso, this time with a deeper sense of purpose. (For the full interview, watch the video above.)Reprising the iconic character in the upcoming film “Karate Kid: Legends” isn’t just a nostalgic return for the actor. It’s a continuation of a legacy that Macchio says shaped both LaRusso’s journey and his own.“I pushed hard to have a line in this movie that basically says, ‘Anytime I have the chance to spread a piece of his legacy, it’s never the wrong choice,’” Macchio told HuffPost in an interview. “It’s always paramount that Miyagi is woven into the fabric of Daniel LaRusso.”That sense of duty to honor the past is personal. Pat Morita’s Oscar-nominated portrayal of Mr. Miyagi — the soft-spoken, deeply wise mentor — left an indelible mark, teaching LaRusso that karate is as much about character and balance as it is about combat.“Reprising this role means paying that legacy forward,” Macchio added. “It’s about spreading that wisdom and knowledge in a good way, in a positive way.”“Karate Kid: Legends” picks up that torch and pushes the franchise into a new chapter. The film follows Li Fong, a kung fu prodigy played by “American Born Chinese” breakout star Ben Wang, who relocates to New York City and is guided by Mr. Han (Jackie Chan), the stoic martial artist from the 2010 “The Karate Kid” reboot. Chan’s character has long been interpreted as that film’s version of Mr. Miyagi. As Li faces new challenges, Mr. Han joins forces with Daniel LaRusso to help train him, blending kung fu with Miyagi-Do karate.The film also marks a historic first: Chan and Macchio share the screen — a moment that, until now, has never happened in the franchise’s decades-long history. Chan told HuffPost that teaming up with Macchio felt like the realization of a long-held dream.“When I see him, [it’s] just like a dream come true,” Chan said. “I see his movie, and it brings me up. Then I do a Miyagi — now I see him, now we both becoming a Miyagi.”“Karate Kid: Legends” is in theaters Friday.Close