“Karate Kid” fans in mourning, Pat E. Johnson died

The U.S. actor trained "Daniel Larusso" and "Master Miyagi" in the Karate Kid saga

Sad news for Karate Kid fans. At the age of 84, U.S. actor Pat E. Johnson passed away. The American stuntman, as well as a martial arts expert (ninth-degree black belt as a karate master), è became famous for coaching actors Pat Morita and Ralph Macchio, aka Master Miyagi and Daniel Larusso, in performing reckless moves to be executed during the course of the fights in the saga.

During the first "Karate Kid" in addition, the actor played the role of the referee in the final of the All Valley tournament won by the protagonist over rival Johnny Lawrence.

Through an Instagram stories, saga star Ralph Macchio took it upon himself to send a final farewell to his coach: "Warming up backstage with the late, great martial arts master and dear friend Pat Johnson. Rest in peace, legend".

Johnson also worked as stuntman and stunt coordinator on many other films, including "Living and Dying in Los Angeles" (1985), "Ninja Turtles to the Rescue" (1990) and its sequels, "Buffy – The Vampire Slayer" (1992) and "Mortal Kombat" (1995) and its sequels. In addition, Johnson è was one of the lead instructors at Chuck Norris karate schools, teaching at the Sherman Oaks location. In 1993 Johnson è was honored with induction into the North American Sport Karate Association Hall of Fame.