Since his 2000 debut as Deacon Sharpe on The Bold and the Beautiful, Sean Kanan has become one of daytime TV’s most charismatic and unpredictable stars. From soap villain to motivational author and real-life martial artist, Kanan’s career is as dynamic as the characters he’s played. Here are five fast facts about the man behind Deacon’s dangerous charm.

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1. Midwest Roots and Hollywood Dreams

Born on November 2 in Cleveland, Ohio, Sean Kanan didn’t always plan on being an actor. While studying political science at Boston University, he discovered his passion for performance and made the bold leap to Los Angeles. That decision paid off — setting him on a path that would take him from film sets to soap superstardom.

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2. From Karate Kid to Cobra Kai

Kanan’s breakout role came in 1989 when he portrayed the ruthless Mike Barnes in The Karate Kid Part III. Decades later, he thrilled fans by reprising the role in Netflix’s hit revival series Cobra Kai Season 5, earning praise for bringing intensity and nostalgia to the fan-favorite franchise.

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3. A Bestselling Author and Motivational Speaker

Outside of acting, Kanan has carved out a reputation as a successful author and life coach. His Way of the Cobra series combines personal stories with practical advice for overcoming obstacles and achieving success. His newest book, Welcome to the Kumite, continues that mission, while his earlier works, including The Modern Gentleman and Success Factor X, have earned critical and commercial acclaim — the latter named one of the most inspirational books of the past two decades by Book Authority.

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4. A Comedian and Stage Performer

Kanan’s talents extend far beyond the screen. He has performed stand-up comedy at legendary venues like The Laugh Factory, The Comedy Store, and Dangerfield’s, showcasing his sharp wit and stage presence. He’s also taken on demanding theatrical roles, including Sam Shepard’s True West — proving that his acting range is as broad as it is bold.

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5. The Daytime Drama Powerhouse

Soap fans know Kanan best for his unforgettable runs across three major soaps:

• General Hospital (as AJ Quartermaine, 1993–1997, 2012–2014)

• Sunset Beach (as Jude Cavanaugh, 1999)

• The Young and the Restless (as Deacon Sharpe, 2009–2012)

• The Bold and the Beautiful (as Deacon Sharpe, 2000–2005, 2014–2017, 2021–present)

What started as a short-term gig on B&B evolved into one of the show’s most enduring and complex characters. Deacon’s mix of swagger, vulnerability, and redemption continues to captivate audiences — a testament to Kanan’s magnetic screen presence.

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Bonus: An Emmy-Winning Creator

In addition to acting, Kanan is the creator and star of the Daytime Emmy Award-winning digital series Studio City, blending behind-the-scenes soap satire with heartfelt storytelling.