Cobra Kai: Can Tory Nichols Ever Get Her Turn As The Hero?

gamerant.com:

When Cobra Kai made its debut as part of YouTube's original lineup, the focus was largely on the nostalgia that fans of the Karate Kid movie would experience. Heavy on flashbacks and highlighting the high school rivalry of Johnny Lawrence and Daniel LaRusso, it was easy to think Cobra Kai would only be their show and that the teenage characters could get pushed to the side. That’s not the case, however, as the new generation’s stories are just as entangled in the rivalry as the old generation, especially as the show moved to Netflix for its third season.

Between the multiple forms of karate taught in the series, there are multiple rivalries between specific teens. Tory Nichols, introduced in the second season, fuels one of them. Played by former Disney Channel star Peyton List, the character is an unapologetic fighter. Tory has grown up in a world that requires her to fight for everything she has, making her take an aggressive approach in life and on the mat. She becomes a huge asset to Cobra Kai, but also is often placed in the role of villain. That doesn’t mean she is one.

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While the first season does see Miguel Diaz overcome his bullies, it’s Season 2 that really takes off for the next generation of karate students. Tory is introduced early in the season as a new girl in town - and only the second female student to attempt to join Cobra Kai. She impresses Aisha Robinson with her aggressive approach, and the two become fast friends. That instant friendship gets under Samantha LaRusso’s skin, who has had a hard time reconnecting with her old friend.

Tory’s presence goes a little farther though as she starts dating Miguel and making friends with the other Cobra Kai