Michael Benardo's martial arts journey began at the tender age of eight, when his parents wisely introduced him to Judo, with the intention of instilling self-confidence. Little did they know that this would spark a lifelong passion for the sport, as Michael would soon become enthralled with Karate at the same esteemed institution.
Under the guidance of Richard Kim in California, Michael honed his skills, eventually earning his black belt. This marked the beginning of a remarkable journey, as he went on to train at four separate schools, each one helping to shape his unique approach to the art.
As he entered adulthood, Michael's dedication to Karate only intensified. At the age of 17, he took the bold step of establishing the Bernardo Karate Academy, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the sport. Later, after obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in Ontario, he transitioned to full-time training, allowing him to focus on perfecting his craft.
Throughout the 1988-1994 period, Michael dominated the National Tournament Circuit, a remarkable achievement that solidified his status as a leading figure in the martial arts community.
Despite his many accomplishments, Michael Bernardo never intended to pursue a career in acting. However, he did secure roles in several action movies, a development that has led him to plan the production of a series for the future.
