Ralph Macchio is best known as Daniel LaRusso in The Karate Kid films that spawned hit sequels and scored phenomenal success in the mid to late ’80s. The baby-face star also popularized the “crane kick” move among ’80s teens.
In the ’90s Macchio had a variety of acting roles including the 1992 comedy hit movie, “My Cousin Vinny”, with Marisa Tomei and Joe Pesci. He followed this with an indie movie, “Naked in New York” in 1993. In 1996, he performed the lead role of J. Pierrepont Finch in the Tony Award winning musical “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying”, and received positive reviews.
Prior to all his major roles, Macchio’s film debut was on The Outsiders. The movie launched the careers of C. Thomas Howell, Matt Dillon, Tom Cruise, Emilio Estevez, Patrick Swayze and Rob Lowe.
Most recently, he appeared in a number of hit TV shows like “Dancing With The Stars”, TV Land’s “Happily Divorced”, and “How I Met Your Mother”.
Seeing Ralph Macchio at The Hollywood Show, brought out many feelings of nostalgia for me. This was the actor I admired growing up in my early teens and there I was chatting with him. I can still remember the famous lines from the classic ’80s movie, “Wax on, Wax off.
Macchio, now 51, looks ageless. Could he have tapped the fountain of youth? In this mini interview with the original Karate Kid, he talks about his ingredients for a long-lasting marriage and his experience on “Dancing with the Stars”.
Ruchel: What do you think of the new version of “The Karate Kid” movie?
RM: I think the new version of The Karate Kid” movie is the exact same story but a very different movie. And it goes to show how a great story can be told in different ways. In 2010 when the film came out, it did everything what it needed to do. The magic and the legacy and the heart and soul of the original was only enhanced by the remake. And I’m proud of that.
Ruchel: What can you say about your experience on Dancing With The Stars?
RM: I can say about my experience with Dancing with the Stars is that I’m still sore (ha ha). It was a beautiful experience. A very tough show to do but a great response from America. It’s like a big fat warm hug from everyone. I created a great friendship with my dance partner and so it was a great thing.
Ruchel: You’ve been married for so long. What is the secret sauce for a successful marriage?
RM: It is commitment and it is hard work. It is knowing that you are in for the long haul and believing that you are meant to be together. We fight just like other couples. It is work but it is the belief that it’s meant to be and we believe that.
I am soooooo jealous…I love Ralph Macchio! He is still as gorgeous now as he was back then. Great interview, Ru!
Seriously, 51? Thanks for the fun read:)