Chad McQueen, son of Hollywood legend Steve McQueen, has passed away at the age of 63. Known for his role as Dutch in the original "The Karate Kid" and its sequel, McQueen also competed in auto racing events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans, honoring his father's passion for the sport.
Chad McQueen, the son of Hollywood icon Steve McQueen, has sadly passed away at the age of 63. The news was confirmed by his lawyer, Arthur H. Barens, in a statement shared with Fox News Digital.
"It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Chad McQueen, son of celebrated actor Steve McQueen. In 2020, Chad sustained an injury from which he never fully recovered," Barens wrote.
Hollywood Star Chad McQueen Passes Away at 63, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Family, Racing, and the 'Karate Kid'
Born on December 28, 1960, Chad McQueen is best remembered for his role as Dutch, one of the bullies in the original "The Karate Kid" and its sequel, "The Karate Kid II." He also appeared in films like "New York Cop" and "Red Line," and, according to Variety, there were plans for him to reprise his "Karate Kid" role in the Netflix spin-off "Cobra Kai," but the plans never came to fruition.
Outside of acting, McQueen focused on auto racing, like his famous father. He competed in events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 12 Hours of Sebring, and in 2010, he founded McQueen Racing. According to the company's website, McQueen's children, Chase and Madison, have taken charge of the company.
Hollywood Star Chad McQueen Passes Away at 63, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Family, Racing, and the 'Karate Kid'
"Together, Chase and Madison form a dynamic team, upholding their father's legacy while infusing their own passion for the joy of racing. Their dedication to excellence and their relentless pursuit of pushing the boundaries of performance and design have positioned McQueen Racing at the forefront of the industry," McQueen Racing's website states.
Barens described Chad McQueen's passion for racing as not only a highlight of his exceptional talent but also as a way to honor his father's legacy. He also noted that McQueen passed on his passion, knowledge, and dedication to his children, who will continue to write the McQueen story with Renaissance Licensing.
Hollywood Star Chad McQueen Passes Away at 63, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Family, Racing, and the 'Karate Kid'
McQueen is also the father of "Vampire Diaries" and "Chicago Fire" star Steven R. McQueen, from a previous marriage. He often took to social media to express his love for his family and his father.
"Happy Fathers Day to the best dad I could’ve ever asked for! Thank you for being my guardian angel. I promise to tell your story the way you would want it because no one knew you like I did," he wrote last year.
Hollywood Star Chad McQueen Passes Away at 63, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Family, Racing, and the 'Karate Kid'
Barens' statement asked for privacy for the McQueen family as they mourn Chad's passing and remember his extraordinary life. He encouraged people to make donations to Boys Republic to support the organization that Chad McQueen held dear.
