Martin Kove is an American actor who is best known for his role as John Kreese, the main antagonist of The Karate Kid (1984). He has reprised the role in The Karate Kid Part II (1986), The Karate Kid Part III (1989), and the television series Cobra Kai (2018–present).
Kove’s personal life has been relatively private, but it is known that he was married to Vivienne Lamour in the 1980s. The couple had twins, Jesse and Jessica, in 1990. Kove and Lamour later divorced, but they have remained close friends.
Romantic Relationships
There is no public information about any other romantic relationships that Kove has had since his divorce from Lamour. It is unknown whether he is currently dating anyone.
Fatherhood
Kove is a proud father to his twins, Jesse and Jessica. Jesse has followed in his father’s footsteps and become an actor. He has appeared in several films and television shows, including Cobra Kai, where he plays a young version of his father’s character, John Kreese.
Career
Kove began his acting career in the early 1970s. He appeared in several minor roles on television and in films before landing his breakthrough role as John Kreese in The Karate Kid. The film was a huge success, and Kove’s performance was widely praised. He reprised the role in the sequels, The Karate Kid Part II and The Karate Kid Part III.
In addition to his work on The Karate Kid franchise, Kove has appeared in numerous other films and television shows throughout his career. Some of his other notable roles include:
- Clem in White Line Fever (1975)
- Police Detective Victor Isbecki in Cagney & Lacey (1982-1988)
- Traitorous helicopter pilot in Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985)
- Jesse Kove in Cobra Kai (2018-present)
Philanthropy
Kove is a dedicated philanthropist. He is a strong supporter of the Special Olympics and has worked with the organization for many years. He is also a supporter of other charities, including the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the American Heart Association.
Conclusion
Martin Kove is a talented actor and a dedicated philanthropist. He has had a successful career in Hollywood, and he is best known for his role as John Kreese in The Karate Kid franchise. Kove is a private person, but it is known that he was married to Vivienne Lamour in the 1980s. The couple had twins, Jesse and Jessica, in 1990. Kove and Lamour later divorced, but they have remained close friends.