I Never Thought I’d Say This, But Johnny Lawrence Is the Best Part of ‘Cobra Kai’ Season 6 Part 3

But let's start with Johnny Lawrence. He was a troubled kid whose loss at the All-Valley Karate Tournament led him on a downward spiral, all the way into adulthood. So in the series, he's introduced as an estranged father and bitter alcoholic who struggles to make a living. After crossing paths with Miguel, however, he stumbles upon a rare opportunity to relaunch the Cobra Kai dojo—and this is where his incredible path to redemption begins.

Six seasons (and several sparring matches with Danny) later, the Johnny Lawrence that I see is very different. This version of Johnny is a bit wiser and not as rough around the edges. I mean, sure, he doesn't hesitate to share his unfiltered comments, and he'll probably (no, definitely) punch someone in the face if they mess with his family. But it's clear that he has matured significantly after teaming up with his old enemy, running his own dojo and going up against enemies like Terry Silver and John Kreese. It's quite satisfying to see this change in the final episodes as he comes to grips with his insecurities and deals with years of pent-up bitterness and resentment.

One particular scene that's sure to bring fans to tears—and easily one of the most pivotal moments of part three—is Johnny's heartfelt exchange with Kreese, who was so shaken by the Sekai Taikai incident that it prompted him to walk away from the karate world for good. But, before doing so, the former sensei approached his star pupil and tried to offer a sincere apology for letting him down. (Which, FYI, I would've never seen coming.) This, in turn, triggered the most raw and emotional response I've ever seen from Johnny on the show. In tears, he not only revealed how he idolized Kreese, but he also noted how that traumatizing attack in the parking lot deeply scarred him.

At this point, I was already teary-eyed, but it was when these two embraced that I just lost it. To see Johnny finally release all that hurt and anger as he wept in the arms of his former sensei was quite cathartic, and Kreese's sudden 180 felt like a reminder that not all ruthless villains are too far gone to get back on the right path. (FYI, in yet another fantastic twist, Kreese makes amends with a final heroic act.)

I truly enjoyed seeing Johnny's growth throughout all six seasons, and these final episodes felt like the icing on the cake. After years of hopelessness and depression, he embarked on a messy but consistent path to redemption. One that wouldn't have been possible without the support of his enemy-turned-friend, Danny, his family or his loyal students. And that leaves me feeling so encouraged.

You can now watch Cobra Kai season six part three on Netflix.

Cobra Kai season six part three delivers all the action and drama while tying the loose ends into a neat bow. Key themes of family and redemption, as well as the intense fight sequences and character development, truly make these final episodes shine.

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