(Cue thePeter Cetera!)
Asthe new trailer reveals, Danieltravels to Okinawain the upcoming season 3where he crosses paths with Kumiko, a.k.a.
the second love of his life.
TINA ROWDEN/NETFLIX
ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: How did your appearance onCobra Kaicome about?
TAMLYN TOMITA:I think it was a surprise email that came early last year.
They were wondering if I’d be interested in coming back as Kumiko.
Everett Collection
They said they would send a script as soon as they could get one ready.
I think they were still finishing shooting season 2.
They came back to me [with a script] in the summer, and it was so sweet.
I said I would love to be able to participate.
And they said, “Fantastic!
We’re so happy.
And Ralph will be so happy!”
It was really a joyous sentiment to be thought of for theCobra Kaiseries.
So yeah, I’m very, very thankful.
Had you watched the show before?
Oh yes, are you kidding me?
They know that a good story will be interesting to all generations.
We know from the trailer that Daniel will cross paths with Kumiko while traveling to Okinawa.
Had you ever wondered over the years what Kumiko would be up to today?
It was always related to dance, and maybe she fell in love and had kids.
There’s all kinds of permutations as to what would have happened to her.
What can you tease about Daniel and Kumiko’s reunion?
I think fans will be pleased.
I just hope with all the hope in my heart that we all did a good job.
What was it like working with Ralph again?
[Laughs] That’s the important part.
Has it been that long?"
Because it just feels like yesterday.
He went through the audition process with me, to assure the producers that there was chemistry between us.
He never put any pressure on me.
He never complained, he never felt irritated or impatient.
This is your light."
It was just a joyous, wonderful experience.
When you first heard that they were makingCobra Kai, what did you think of the idea?
Because they’ve been saying no for 35 years.
[Producer] Jerry Weintraub is not around anymore.
I trust Ralph Macchio and William Zabka and the three writers.
Do fans still approach you aboutKarate Kid Part II?
It’s been a progression for me, because sometimes I wantednotto be known as Kumiko.
Admittedly, there was a period of time where I felt like, “I’m not just Kumiko!
I’mWaverley fromJoy Luck Club!”
Waverly was kind of a calculating, rich mean girlfriend.
So I was lucky enough to have that role.
Sometimes people kind of look at me askance, and they go, “Wait a second.
Waverley is Kumiko?”
So those two are the roles I usually get recognized for.
That’s why I’ve never forgotten.
Cobra Kaiseason 3 premieres in January on Netflix.
