Thomas Ian Griffith: From Karate Kid villain to Cobra Kai star, his life explored

After a four-month break, Netflix has dropped the latest batch of Cobra Kai episodes, with fans being treated to five more instalments of the final season.

Despite not featuring in the final series, actor Thomas Ian Griffith left a lasting impression as his character Terry Silver in seasons four and five.

He first appeared in The Karate Kid Part 3 back in 1989, serving as the main antagonist before reprising his role in the fourth season of Cobra Kai in 2021.

Here's everything you need to know about Thomas from his height to his co-star wife as well as him initially turning down the iconic role....

Height

Thomas stands at an impressive 6ft 5 and boasts a muscular physique, which is useful given he's a trained martial artist in Tae Kwon Do, having learnt from Master Jun Chong.

In addition to Tae Kwon Do and Kenpo Karate, he's also trained in kickboxing, wrestling and fencing.

He holds a black belt in kendo karate and also has experience in stage combat.

Co-star wife

The actor made his acting debut in soap opera Another World from 1984 to 1987, where he met co-star Mary Page Keller.

The two portrayed on-screen love interests and eventually began dating before taking their relationship to the next level.

The couple tied the knot in 1991 and have been together for 33 years. They have two sons together, Eamonn and Conner.

Terry Silver role

Thomas, when initially cast as Terry Silver in The Karate Kid 3, believed the role was beyond his grasp given he was only 28 at the time and the character was a Vietnam War veteran.

He also found it peculiar to be cast as an older antagonist to Ralph Macchio's Daniel, despite being younger than him.

Despite these initial reservations, Thomas embraced the role which subsequently