For decades, William Zabka’s name was intrinsically linked to the high-kicking, cold-blooded ferocity of Johnny Lawrence, the quintessential bully of the Karate Kid universe whose defeat felt like a cultural victory. To measure his career only by the narrow confines of that iconic role would be to miss the extraordinary evolution of an actor who turned a punchline into a rich, three-dimensional character study.
Now celebrating his 66th year, his creative journey is one of compelling reversal, a rare Hollywood redemption arc told over the span of four decades. While the revival series Cobra Kai has allowed him to fully inhabit a version of Johnny stripped of his youthful aggression and layered with vulnerability and flawed humor, his true skill is evidenced across a filmography that extends beyond the dojo.
Cobra Kai (2018–2025)
The ultimate career renaissance. Zabka didn’t just reprise his most famous role; he brilliantly reinvented Johnny Lawrence as a complex, hilarious, and redemptive anti-hero. As the lead, executive producer, and occasional director, his work here is a masterclass in fusing nostalgia with mature, character-driven narrative.
The Karate Kid (1984)
The film that established his legacy. His portrayal of Johnny Lawrence as the arrogant, blonde antagonist of the Cobra Kai Dojo set the gold standard for the cinematic bully of the 1980s, creating a character whose cultural impact has lasted for decades.
How I Met Your Mother (2013–2014)
A brilliantly self-aware recurring role. Zabka played himself—or rather, a meta-fictional version of “Billy Zabka”—in the final season, perfectly leveraging his 80s villain fame for hilarious comedic effect and demonstrating a wonderful sense of humor about his own history.
Python (2000)
Zabka starred in this made-for-TV creature feature as Deputy Greg Larson, an officer who must deal with a giant, terrifying snake loose after a cargo plane crash. This key role anchored the narrative, showcasing his ability to lead a low-budget action/horror film and later reprised the role in the sequel, Python II.
Back to School (1986)
In this popular Rodney Dangerfield comedy, Zabka once again embodied the quintessential college jerk, Chas Osborne. It served as an effective comedic extension of his 80s archetype, solidifying his presence in the era’s youth-centric films.
Just One of the Guys (1985)
In this gender-swap comedy, he portrayed Greg Tolan, the cocky, muscular prom king. It was another consistent and effective iteration of the mean-spirited jock role that became his signature throughout the mid-80s.
The Equalizer (1985–1989)
An early opportunity to showcase his dramatic range in the crime genre. Zabka had a recurring role as Scott McCall, the protagonist’s son, allowing him to explore a more nuanced character with long-term development in a high-profile TV series.
Where Hope Grows (2014)
A shift to quiet, mature drama. Zabka took on the supporting role of Milton Malcolm in this independent film, offering a gentler, more subdued performance that successfully distanced him from his past athletic antagonists.
National Lampoon’s European Vacation (1985)
As Jack, the jock boyfriend of Audrey Griswold, Zabka offered a small but memorable turn in this classic comedy sequel, reinforcing his image as the west-coast stereotype who often causes trouble for the hapless All-American family.
Shootfighter: Fight to the Death (1993)
This direct-to-video martial arts action film featured Zabka as Ruben. The role allowed him to utilize his genuine martial arts training to transition into tougher, action-oriented roles in the 1990s as the action genre evolved.