Johnny Logano's Love for Miguel and Robby in Cobra Kai: Sons or Substitutes?

Johnny Logano, the patriarch of the Logano family and the primary antagonist of the Cobra Kai series, has developed a complex relationship with his biological son, Robby DeLuca, and his surrogate son, Miguel Murakami. Fans often wonder about the depth of Johnny's feelings for each of these sons. Is there a distinction in his love, or are his feelings for both equally genuine?

Love for Robby: The Alienated Son

Robby DeLuca, Johnny's biological son, has often been sidelined for Miguel in the limited attention that Johnny does provide. Robby has made multiple attempts to enter Johnny’s life, but these have largely been rebuffed. For example, in season 2, Robby and his mother, Samantha, stay at Johnny’s house, the only time Robby felt that Johnny truly let him in. Despite this, Robby's continuous efforts to rebuild this relationship have been met with a cold shoulder, leading him to feel increasingly alienated.

Despite the obstacles, Robby’s love for his father remains unwavering. In season 4, Robby even goes as far as to suggest that Johnny is using Miguel to compensate for his neglect of Robby. While this suggestion does have some merit, Johnny's actions throughout the series reveal a deeper, more genuine love for Robby. Johnny's primary concern seems to be his son's safety and well-being, even when he makes mistakes, such as instigating the conflict with Crane Dojo, which led to Robby's involvement with Cobra Kai in the first place.

Love for Miguel: The Surrogate Son's Journey

Miguel Murakami, Johnny's surrogate son, has become the focus of significant emotional investment. Johnny spends a great deal of time with Miguel, showing a level of attention and care that is often lacking in his relationship with Robby. This raises questions about the nature of Johnny’s love for Miguel. Some argue that Johnny views Miguel as a do-over of Robby, a chance to correct his past mistakes without the complicated history that Robby brings to the table.

The episode 8 of season 4 was particularly poignant in this regard, as it confronted Miguel with the truth about Johnny’s view of him as a replacement. This realization deeply hurt Miguel, suggesting that Johnny’s love for Miguel is somewhat conditional and rooted in his desire to make up for his failed relationship with Robby. However, by the end of season 5, it is expected that Johnny's perspective will shift, and both Robby and Miguel will be seen as equally valuable sons to him.

Conclusion: A Complex Dance of Love and Family

Summarily, Johnny's love for Robby and Miguel is a compelling mix of deep concern, regret, and genuine affection. While he has chosen to rebuff Robby, leaving him feeling isolated, Johnny's actions with Miguel reveal a desire to make amends and provide nurture. By the end of season 5, we can anticipate that Johnny will come to value both his biological and surrogate sons equally, recognizing the unique bond each has formed with him.

As we continue to follow the series, it will be interesting to see how Johnny's perspective on both Robby and Miguel evolves, shaping the narrative and emotional journey of these two sons.