No Small Parts Season 3 Episode 50 William Zabka

No small parts is a documentary series that explores the careers of character actors, their roles, and the impact they've had on film, television, and pop culture. This episode features William Zabka, an actor, writer, and producer who rise to fame as the quintessential '80s movie bully.

The episode begins by introducing William Zabka's early life, including his upbringing in New York, where he attended a performing arts school. After graduation, Zabka moved to California to pursue his acting career, and it wasn't long before he landed his breakout role as Johnny Lawrence in the iconic 1984 film, The Karate Kid.

Zabka's portrayal of Johnny Lawrence, the fierce and intimidating karate expert who serves as the main antagonist to the film's protagonist, Daniel LaRusso, turned him into an instant icon of movie villainy. As the episode delves into Zabka's career, viewers get a closer look at the man behind the character, and the nuances he brought to his performances.

Through interviews with industry insiders, including directors, producers, fellow actors, and fans of his work, the episode explores Zabka's impressive range as an actor. While he's best known for his villainous roles in movies like The Karate Kid Part II, National Lampoon's European Vacation, and Back to School, Zabka also has a talent for comedy, showcasing his lighter side in films like Just One of the Guys and Hot Tub Time Machine.

The episode explores Zabka's experience with typecasting, and how he's worked to overcome it in his career. While he initially struggled to find work beyond the "90s teen movie bully" type, he eventually began writing and producing his own projects, including the 2003 short film, Most, which earned critical acclaim and helped him break free from the roles that were holding him back.

The episode also touches on Zabka's personal life, including his experiences with fatherhood and his passion for music. Zabka has been playing guitar and singing since he was a teenager, and the show explores how he's incorporated his love of music into his work, including his role in the upcoming YouTube Red series, Cobra Kai, which picks up the story of Johnny Lawrence and Daniel LaRusso thirty years after the events of The Karate Kid.

Overall, this episode of No Small Parts is an engaging and informative look at the career of William Zabka, a versatile actor who's made a lasting impact on pop culture. Whether you're a fan of his work in the 80s and 90s teen movies or are just discovering his talent for the first time, this episode is a must-see.