West Hartford News

West Hartford boy finds fame with Netflix’ ‘Cobra Kai’

[as originally published on: westhartfordnews.com]

WEST HARTFORD — Griffin Santopietro, 14, is best known for his appearances alongside such on-screen icons as Adam Sandler (“The Week Of”) and Ralph Macchio (“Cobra Kai”), but he’s also a West Hartford local. Griffin, who lives with his parents and two brothers, plays Anthony “Antonio” LaRusso, Daniel LaRusso’s (Ralph Macchio’s) son, on “Cobra Kai.” Netflix recently acquired “Cobra Kai” and helped it immediately earn the top spot as the #1 most-watched show in America. Griffin sat down to give his take on all things entertainment (and West Hartford!).

You play Anthony “Antonio” LaRusso, Daniel LaRusso’s (Ralph Macchio’s) son, on “Cobra Kai.” What was it like meeting Ralph Macchio after having seen him in “The Karate Kid” movies?

Well, it was weird at first, seeing the Karate Kid all grown up — and I had literally no idea what he was going to be like, but honestly after getting to know him, he’s very similar to his character. Coming from an Italian family, he reminds me of so many of my own relatives.

Production hours must get long at times. What’s the best part of being on set? Do you have any tricks for keeping it fun?

There is a lot of waiting around on set for sure, but the cast and crew are super fun so there’s never a dull moment. Meals are great because the whole cast and crew can get together, but I would say that being on set and watching everyone do what they love is pretty amazing.

“Cobra Kai” was recently acquired by Netflix and now holds the title of the #1 show in America. What are some of your other go-to shows when you want to watch something on Netflix?

Definitely “Sherlock,” “Community” and “Daredevil.”

Do you see yourself expanding more into the entertainment industry (do you have interest in writing, directing, producing)?

My best friend and I have been messing around with writing lately, so yes, I think about writing and directing for sure. But my passion will always be acting.

Are you a sports fan? Who’s your favorite team?

I am probably the last person you want to ask about sports, but I can say I’m bummed the Hartford Yard Goats didn’t play this year.

When large concerts start up again, who are you most looking forward to seeing live?

I am a huge fan of 80s music and, so I wish The Smiths were still a thing, but maybe I’ll get to see Morrissey in 2021?

If you were running the marketing campaign for West Hartford, what would the slogan be?

“Stay Centered”

When you’re out of town filming, what do you miss about home?

Probably my dog, Stella, and maybe some humans — but mostly my dog [laughs].