Xolo Maridueña, Known for His Roles in Cobra Kai and Blue Beetle, Is a Highly Popular Fan Choice to Portray the Red Ranger in the Upcoming Power Rangers Reboot

The Power Rangers franchise, a cultural juggernaut since its debut in 1993, is gearing up for a bold new chapter with a rumored reboot under Paramount Pictures. As speculation swirls about casting and direction, one name has emerged as a resounding favorite among fans: Xolo Maridueña. Known for his standout performances as Miguel Diaz in Netflix’s *Cobra Kai* and Jaime Reyes in DC’s *Blue Beetle*, Maridueña has captured the imagination of Power Rangers enthusiasts who see him as the perfect fit to don the iconic red suit. With his proven versatility, youthful energy, and martial arts prowess, the 23-year-old actor is poised to lead the next generation of Rangers into a fresh era.

Maridueña’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of meteoric. Born in Los Angeles in 2001 to a family of Mexican, Cuban, and Ecuadorian descent, he first gained attention with his role in the acclaimed series *Parenthood* before landing the part of Miguel in *Cobra Kai*. The *Karate Kid* spinoff, which concluded its sixth and final season in 2025, showcased his ability to blend emotional depth with physicality, earning him a dedicated following. His portrayal of a determined underdog who rises to become a martial arts champion struck a chord with viewers, cementing his status as a breakout star. Then, in 2023, he took on the lead role in *Blue Beetle*, becoming the first Latino superhero to headline a DC film. The movie’s success—both critically and culturally—further elevated his profile, proving he could carry a franchise on his shoulders.

It’s no surprise, then, that fans are clamoring for Maridueña to take on the Red Ranger mantle. The Red Ranger has long been the face of the Power Rangers, a leader who embodies courage, strength, and unwavering resolve—qualities Maridueña has already demonstrated in spades. On platforms like X and Reddit, fan campaigns have gained traction, with users praising his charisma and screen presence. “Xolo as the Red Ranger just makes sense,” one fan tweeted in early 2025. “He’s got the heart, the moves, and the star power to make this reboot epic.” Another pointed to his *Cobra Kai* fight scenes, noting, “He’s already got the skills to morph into action—give him the suit!” The enthusiasm reflects a broader desire for a reboot that honors the franchise’s legacy while injecting new vitality.

The Power Rangers reboot has been in development limbo for years, but recent updates suggest momentum is building. Hasbro, which owns the franchise, has partnered with Paramount to reimagine the series, with whispers of a 2026 or 2027 release date circulating as of March 2025. While details remain scarce, the project is rumored to blend the classic *Mighty Morphin* aesthetic with a modern twist, potentially drawing from the 2015 *Power Rangers Prime* comic by BOOM! Studios. The Red Ranger, traditionally the team’s cornerstone, will undoubtedly be a pivotal casting choice. Past iterations—like Jason Lee Scott, played by Austin St. John in the original series—set a high bar, blending leadership with a cool-headed intensity that Maridueña’s performances echo.

Maridueña’s martial arts background gives him a distinct edge. Trained in karate and stunt work for *Cobra Kai*, he’s adept at executing complex choreography, a must for the Red Ranger’s high-octane battles against Rita Repulsa or whatever new villain emerges. His work in *Blue Beetle* further showcased his ability to handle superhero action, from wielding the scarab’s powers to delivering quippy one-liners. Yet, it’s not just his physicality that makes him a fan favorite—it’s his ability to convey vulnerability and growth. In *Cobra Kai*, Miguel’s journey from a bullied teen to a confident fighter mirrored the arcs of many Red Rangers, who often start as ordinary kids thrust into extraordinary roles.

The timing couldn’t be better for Maridueña to take on such a project. With *Cobra Kai* wrapped, he’s free to dive into new ventures. His next confirmed role is voicing Jaime Reyes in a *Blue Beetle* animated series, set for a possible 2026 release under James Gunn’s DC Universe. While this commitment ties him to DC, the fluid nature of Hollywood scheduling—and the precedent of actors like Anthony Mackie juggling Marvel and other franchises—leaves room for a Power Rangers gig. Rumors of him being considered for Marvel’s *Nova* series have also surfaced, but nothing is confirmed, keeping the door open for Paramount to swoop in.

Casting Maridueña would also align with the franchise’s push for diversity. The 2017 *Power Rangers* film made strides with a multicultural team, and Maridueña, with his Latino heritage, could bring authentic representation to the Red Ranger role. His *Blue Beetle* experience, where he championed Latino visibility in superhero media, suggests he’d embrace the chance to do the same for Power Rangers. “It’s about showing kids they can be heroes too,” he said in a 2023 interview, a sentiment that resonates with the Rangers’ ethos of empowerment.

Of course, the reboot’s success hinges on more than just casting. The creative team—rumored to include writers from *Stranger Things*—must craft a story that balances nostalgia with innovation. Yet, Maridueña’s involvement could be the spark that ignites fan excitement and draws in new viewers. His name alone generates buzz, as seen in the flood of fan art depicting him in the red suit, complete with the diamond-patterned chest plate. Whether he’d play a reimagined Jason or a new character entirely, his presence would signal a bold, forward-looking vision.

As of March 2025, no official casting announcements have been made, but the groundswell of support for Maridueña is undeniable. He brings a rare mix of talent, relatability, and star power that could redefine the Red Ranger for a new generation. For a franchise ready to morph into its next phase, Xolo Maridueña might just be the perfect power play. Fans are watching closely, hoping to hear, “It’s morphin’ time!” from their chosen leader.