• Faith: Christian
• Career: Actor
• Birthday:  November 04, 1961

Ralph Macchio is an actor best known for his portrayal of Daniel LaRusso in The Karate Kid franchise. He starred in four films—"The Karate Kid" (1984) and its sequels, "The Karate Kid Part II" (1986), "The Karate Kid Part III" (1989), and "Karate Kid: Legends" (2025). He also reprised his role in "Cobra Kai" (2018–2025), a sequel series that aired on YouTube Premium before moving to Netflix.

Raised in a close-knit Italian-American family, Macchio is the elder of two sons born to Rosalie (née DeSantis) and Ralph George Macchio Sr. His father owned several laundromats and a wastewater disposal company, providing a modest yet comfortable upbringing for Ralph and his younger brother, Steven. From the tender age of three, Macchio began taking tap dance lessons, a passion that would unknowingly pave the way for his future in entertainment. His early exposure to dance not only honed his rhythm and coordination but also instilled a sense of discipline and performance that would become invaluable in his acting career.

At sixteen, during a dance recital, Macchio's talents caught the eye of a talent agent. This serendipitous encounter led to opportunities in television commercials, including notable spots for Bubble Yum chewing gum. His commercial success soon transitioned into television roles, with his debut as Jeremy Andretti in the series "Eight Is Enough" in 1980. This role showcased his ability to portray earnest and relatable characters, setting the stage for his future in film.

In 1983, Macchio's portrayal of Johnny Cade in Francis Ford Coppola's adaptation of S.E. Hinton's novel "The Outsiders" garnered critical acclaim. Starring alongside future stars like Patrick Swayze, Matt Dillon, and Tom Cruise, Macchio's sensitive and heartfelt performance resonated with audiences and critics alike. This role not only solidified his place in Hollywood but also demonstrated his versatility and depth as an actor.

The following year, Macchio was cast as Daniel LaRusso in "The Karate Kid" (1984), a role that would define his career. Portraying a teenager who learns karate to defend himself against bullies, Macchio's performance, combined with the mentorship dynamic with Pat Morita's Mr. Miyagi, struck a chord worldwide. The film's success led to two sequels: "The Karate Kid Part II" (1986) and "The Karate Kid Part III" (1989). Macchio's embodiment of LaRusso made him a cultural icon, inspiring countless individuals to take up martial arts and embrace the film's underlying messages of perseverance and honor.

 Macchio married Phyllis Fierro on April 5, 1987. His grandmother introduced him to Fierro when he was just fifteen years old. Phyllis, a nurse practitioner, and Ralph have two children: Julia, born in 1992, and Daniel, born in 1996—named after Macchio's iconic character.

Beyond "The Karate Kid," Macchio showcased his range through various roles. In 1992, he starred as William Gambini in the comedy "My Cousin Vinny," delivering a memorable performance alongside Joe Pesci and Marisa Tomei. His portrayal of a wrongfully accused youth highlighted his comedic timing and adaptability. Additionally, Macchio took on roles in films like "Crossroads" (1986) and appeared in television series such as "Ugly Betty" and "The Deuce," continually evolving as an artist and exploring diverse genres.

In 2018, Macchio reprised his role as Daniel LaRusso in the series "Cobra Kai," a continuation of the "Karate Kid" saga. The show explores the lives of the original characters decades later, delving into themes of redemption, rivalry, and personal growth. "Cobra Kai" received critical acclaim and introduced Macchio to a new generation of fans. His portrayal of an older, more complex LaRusso added depth to the character, reflecting both nostalgia and contemporary challenges. The series' success underscores Macchio's enduring appeal and the timeless relevance of "The Karate Kid" narrative.

On November 20, 2024, Macchio was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, located adjacent to that of his late co-star, Pat Morita. During the ceremony, Macchio expressed profound gratitude, acknowledging the support of his family, colleagues, and fans.

Ralph Macchio's Religious Beliefs

While Macchio's Italian heritage suggests a cultural connection to Catholicism, he has maintained a private stance regarding his personal religious beliefs. Macchio prefers to keep certain aspects of his personal life away from the public eye; however, it is widely believed that he is indeed Christian.