Joshua Jackson Reflects on 'Childhood Dream Come True' Role in Karate Kid: Legends

Published: May 30, 2025

Joshua Jackson is beaming with pride as he talks about his role in the new film Karate Kid: Legends, calling it a "childhood dream come true."

The actor, 46, shared his excitement with PEOPLE at the film's premiere on Tuesday, May 27, saying he feels honored to be a part of the iconic Karate Kid franchise.

"As [Ben Wang] said very wisely, he's going to be the Karate Kid for my daughter, and I just think that that's awesome that I get to be a part of the movie that like pays that forward to the next generation," he said.

Jackson's Challenging Role

Jackson plays Victor, a former boxing champ and pizzeria owner, in the film. He shared that he had to gain 20 lbs. to embody his character, which proved to be a challenge.

"I walk around at 175," he explained on the Tuesday, May 27, episode of the Today show. "I was almost 195 for the film."

Despite the difficulties, Jackson welcomed the challenge, saying, "the training part is the fun part of my job."

He also shared a funny anecdote about bringing his 5-year-old daughter, Juno, on set, saying it was a "really stupid thing" to do.

"She did not like seeing her dad get beat up. So I don't think I'll watch it with her in the theatrical run, but within a couple years I think we'll be okay," he said.

Jackson's Challenging Role

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