- Martin Kove has publicly apologized for biting Alicia Hannah-Kim during a fan convention.
- The actor described the act as “playful” but admits he crossed a line.
- Hannah-Kim filed a police report but chose not to press charges.
At a recent fan convention, Martin Kove, known for portraying the fierce John Kreese in Cobra Kai, shocked attendees and fans by biting co-star Alicia Hannah-Kim on the arm. The unexpected incident occurred when Hannah-Kim greeted Kove with a tap on the shoulder.
In his public apology, Kove acknowledged that his behavior was inappropriate, stating, “There is absolutely no excuse for my actions.” He emphasized his respect for Hannah-Kim both personally and professionally and expressed deep regret for what he called a moment of poor judgment.
I Went Too Far’: Martin Kove Apologizes for Biting Cobra Kai Co-Star at Fan Event
Alicia Hannah-Kim, who plays the formidable sensei Kim Da-Eun on Cobra Kai, reportedly remained composed after the encounter, despite being visibly shaken. Witnesses noted she stepped away immediately following the incident, choosing to maintain her professionalism in a public setting. Sources say she did not wish to escalate the matter but wanted a record of the incident in case further action was needed.
The fan convention was meant to celebrate the popularity of Cobra Kai, a series known for its high-energy martial arts and complex character arcs. Unfortunately, the biting incident overshadowed the event’s intent, sparking online discussions about boundaries, respect, and behavior at public appearances. Fans expressed concern over how such actions could affect the show’s image and future appearances by its cast.
While Kove’s apology appears sincere, some social media users have questioned whether a public statement is enough. Discussions have emerged about the accountability of celebrity figures and how “playful” conduct can quickly become inappropriate or harmful. Industry professionals are now calling for clearer codes of conduct at fan conventions to prevent similar occurrences.
Representatives for both actors have not commented beyond the official apology. However, insiders suggest that the production team behind Cobra Kai is monitoring the situation closely. While this incident is not expected to affect the show’s upcoming season, it has raised questions about the dynamics between cast members off-screen.
Though Martin Kove has publicly taken responsibility for his actions, the incident underscores the need for respectful boundaries—even in seemingly playful settings.
“You can judge a man’s character by how he treats those who can do nothing for him.” — Malcolm S. Forbes
