Emmy Award-winning producer, Emmy-nominated actor, and acclaimed author Sean Kanan has carved out an impressive career in the entertainment industry. With decades of experience, he continually reinvents himself, showcasing his versatility across television, film, and literature. From his breakout role in The Karate Kid Part III to acclaimed performances in popular soap operas like General Hospital and The Bold and the Beautiful, Kanan has established himself as a dynamic force in Hollywood. His leading role in the Emmy-winning streaming series Studio City, which he created, further highlights his diverse talents.
Kanan gained widespread recognition in 1989 for his portrayal of Mike Barnes, the fierce antagonist in The Karate Kid Part III. His compelling performance solidified his place in Hollywood. Kanan showcased remarkable resilience by performing all his own martial arts stunts, even while overcoming physical challenges and injuries during filming. He later reprised the role of Mike Barnes in seasons 5 and 6 of Netflix’s hit series Cobra Kai, receiving critical acclaim and reinforcing his status as an international star.
Kanan is a prolific writer and producer. He has authored five books, including Way of the COBRA, a motivational guide that blends personal anecdotes with practical advice on perseverance, discipline, and self-improvement, inspiring readers to “unleash their inner badass.” Most recently, he co-authored the third installment in the award winning Way of the COBRA series, titled Way of the COBRA Couples, an insightful manual for fostering vibrant and authentic relationships.
Currently, Kanan serves as the showrunner and head writer for an upcoming streaming dramedy focused on high-stakes poker, bridging his talents in both front and behind-the-camera roles. Alongside his wife Michele, he is set to write Bodyman, an action film steeped in political intrigue, which will be produced by their company, Flip Creative Media, with Michele directing.