Stepping onto the set of “Karate Kid: Legends” wasn’t just a career milestone for Ben Wang; it was like walking straight into a childhood dream. (For the full interview, watch the video above.)The 25-year-old actor, best known for his breakout role in “American Born Chinese,” leads the newest chapter of the iconic martial arts franchise. In the upcoming film, Wang plays Li Fong, a kung fu prodigy who trains under the guidance of Mr. Han (Jackie Chan) and Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio). But before the cameras rolled, Wang was battling some serious nerves.“It’s really kind of terrifying to meet people who are essentially like mythological beings,” Wang told HuffPost. “I grew up watching their films. They’re part of the fiction of my childhood. So meeting them as real people — and then getting to work and do fight scenes with them — I did lose a lot of sleep and hair over it.”Thankfully, Wang’s nerves didn’t last long. “They’re such wonderful, kind people who are generous with their talent, generous with their time, generous with their attention,” he said. “They were nothing but welcoming.”Meanwhile, the veteran martial artists said something else truly stood out on set: Wang’s relentless work ethic. Chan, who reprises his role from the 2010 “The Karate Kid,” said the young actor’s behind-the-scenes dedication stood out immediately. “I see him on the corner still practicing,” Chan said. “Then I said, people who [are a] success must be a reason. That’s the reason — he works so hard.”Macchio, returning more than four decades after his debut as LaRusso, echoed the sentiment.“He came in very prepared on all levels,” Macchio said. “It’s very inspiring to see that.”“Karate Kid: Legends” marks the first time Chan and Macchio share the screen; it’s an unprecedented pairing that unites two eras of martial arts storytelling. The film blends the kung fu discipline of Mr. Han with the philosophy of Miyagi-Do, as Li Fong finds himself navigating a new life in New York City with both masters.“Karate Kid: Legends” is in theaters Friday.Close