The end of Cobra Kai is here, and emotions are running high. As the show reaches its epic conclusion, fans are eagerly watching how each character’s journey unfolds. Mary Mouser, who has portrayed Samantha LaRusso since the very beginning, sat down with Pop Culture Unplugged to discuss the final episodes, her character’s growth, and what it’s like saying goodbye to a role that has defined a significant chapter of her career.
A Bittersweet Goodbye to Cobra Kai
As someone who has been deeply invested in the Cobra Kai universe, Mary admitted she’s still processing the fact that it’s over.
“I’m sad it’s over, to be honest,” she shared. “Everyone knows that I’m just the complete mess ball of the group, so I have shed many, many, many happy tears. Watching each character sign off and have their moment was so surreal.”
Reading the Final Script: A Wave of Emotions
When asked about her reaction to reading the script for the last five episodes, Mary revealed that it was an emotional experience.
“A lot of tears,” she admitted. “I have some tear-stained copies of the script, but I also felt a lot of gratitude and joy. I was at peace with it, which I didn’t expect. I kept wondering how they could possibly wrap up everything in a way that felt satisfying. But they did. Our writers and creators did an amazing job.”
One of the biggest surprises for her? The Johnny Lawrence curveball.
“I did not see that coming at all. I was right there with the fans, just shocked. I can’t wait to hear their reactions.”
Samantha LaRusso’s Final Chapter
Samantha has grown tremendously over the seasons, and in Part 3 of Season 6, we see the culmination of her journey.
“She’s had a lot of opportunities to learn over the years, and I feel like it all catches up with her at once,” Mary explained. “She’s finally looking at things from a bigger perspective. The most rewarding moment for me was the kitchen scene with Ralph (Macchio). Sam is terrified to disappoint her dad, but she knows she’s making the right decision. Seeing his pride in her in that moment meant everything.”
Should Sam Have Fought in the Sekai Taikai?
One of the biggest surprises was Samantha not finishing the tournament. Mary had mixed emotions about it.
“Mary, the actor, was disappointed because I love the fights,” she laughed. “But for Samantha, I was really proud of her decision. It took me a second to realize that I had already read my last fight without knowing it. That was kind of heartbreaking. But when I looked back at it, I was at peace with it. It felt like the right way to go.”
The Rivalry with Tori and Finding Friendship
Sam and Tori’s rivalry has been a key part of Cobra Kai, but their dynamic took a surprising turn in the final season. One of Mary’s favorite scenes was training Tori for the tournament.
“That was so fun,” she said. “Peyton (List) and I used to joke that it was so hard to pretend to hate each other because we get along so well. Then when we started having to like each other, we were like, ‘Wait, this is harder!’ But I love that Sam finally stepped back and supported someone else instead of always feeling like she had to be the one to fight.”
Sam and Miguel’s Future
Sam and Miguel’s relationship has been a central storyline since Season 1, and their ending left things open-ended.
“I went back and forth,” Mary said. “At first, I wanted them to end up together. But then I saw the beauty in leaving it open-ended. It’s like the ending of Inception—you have to decide for yourself what happens next. I love that they both grew and supported each other’s future, whether that means together or apart.”
The reveal that Miguel was joining Sam in Okinawa was a surprise—even to Mary.
“In an earlier version of the script, Miguel wasn’t going,” she revealed. “Then they changed it, and it felt right. I love that Sam is stepping out of her comfort zone and opening her world beyond the valley.”
The Fights That Never Happened
Looking back at Cobra Kai’s many battles, Mary revealed there was one fight she wished had happened.
“I always thought it would be interesting for Sam to fight Kenny,” she said. “I feel like that could’ve been a cool dynamic to explore.”
Her favorite fight?
“The dream sequence fight with Sam vs. Sam. That was just such a cool, unique moment. And of course, all of the Sam vs. Tori fights.”
On Kreese and Silver’s Explosive Exit
One of the most shocking moments of the finale was Kreese and Silver’s fate in the fiery boat explosion.
“That was so Cobra Kai,” Mary laughed. “It was such an epic way for them to go out. But do I think they’re dead? No way. I feel like they continued their fight underwater somehow. I don’t believe a boat explosion took them out.”
What She Took from Set
Saying goodbye to Cobra Kai wasn’t easy, but Mary made sure to take some souvenirs.
“I have my gi, which is the most special thing. That would have been heartbreaking to leave behind,” she said. “I also took the original photo strips from Sam and Miguel’s first date scene in Season 1. They got damaged in travel, but I still have them.”
Would She Return for a Cobra Kai Spinoff or Movie?
With rumors of Cobra Kai spin-offs or a possible movie, would Mary be open to returning?
“Absolutely,” she said without hesitation. “I’m not done with Samantha. I’d love to see what she’s up to now.”
A Final Message to the Fans
As Cobra Kai comes to an end, Mary had one last message for the fans.
“I’m so grateful,” she said, holding back tears. “The way the fans have embraced us is the reason we got to make this show. It truly felt like a family, not just among the cast and crew, but with the fans too. You’ve been with us every step of the way, and I’ll never forget that.”
What’s Next for Mary Mouser?
While she’s saying goodbye to Cobra Kai, Mary is excited for what’s next.
“I’m auditioning, looking at new opportunities, and just excited for the next chapter. But no matter what, Cobra Kai will always be a huge part of my heart.”
The Cobra Kai journey may have come to an end, but for Mary Mouser and Samantha LaRusso, their impact on the Karate Kid universe will live on forever.
All episodes of Cobra Kai Season 6 are now streaming on Netflix. Don’t miss the final chapter!