The McQueen legacy has taken a heavy blow as Chad McQueen, son of legendary Hollywood actor Steve McQueen, has passed away at the age of 63. The news was confirmed Thursday by his lawyer, Arthur H. Barens, who released a statement to Fox News Digital. Chad had reportedly sustained an injury in 2020 from which he never fully recovered.
Born on December 28, 1960, Chad McQueen may be best remembered by film fans for his portrayal of Dutch, one of the iconic bullies in the original The Karate Kid and its sequel, The Karate Kid II. While many hoped to see him return in the Netflix hit Cobra Kai, those plans sadly never materialized. But acting wasn’t Chad’s only passion—like his father, Chad had gasoline in his veins.
😢 For those of us who are fans of the original & the best, “The Karate Kid”. Bon Voyage to Chad McQueen – 28 December 1960 – 11 September 2024. https://t.co/xPdFFQXOli pic.twitter.com/OzoRFDcKNu
— Valkyrie Ziege 💝 Éirinn go Brách 💝 (@ZiegeValkyrie) September 14, 2024
Beyond Hollywood, Chad followed in his famous dad’s footsteps in the world of auto racing. His talent on the track was undeniable, and he competed in high-profile events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 12 Hours of Sebring. In 2010, Chad founded McQueen Racing, keeping the family’s passion for speed and performance alive. His children, Chase and Madison McQueen, now carry that torch, continuing their father’s work while adding their own innovative touch to the brand.
Barens’ statement captured Chad’s passion for racing and family, noting that his life was a tribute to his father’s legacy. “His passion for racing not only highlighted his exceptional talent but also served as a way to honor his father’s legacy,” Barens said. He emphasized that Chad’s children will continue to write the McQueen story, keeping the family’s name alive through McQueen Racing.
Chad McQueen, an actor known for roles in films like “Karate Kid” and the son of the late actor and race car driver Steve McQueen, has died. https://t.co/BoyV6NRTJv
— KTVU (@KTVU) September 14, 2024
Chad’s life, however, wasn’t all about speed and film. He was a devoted father to Chase, Madison, and Steven R. McQueen, known for his roles in The Vampire Diaries and Chicago Fire. Chad was also a loving partner to Jeanie, and his life was a testament to love, family, and commitment. His mother, Neile Adams, a well-known Broadway performer, also survives him.
On social media, Chad frequently paid tribute to his legendary father, Steve McQueen, who passed away in 1980. In a heartfelt Father’s Day post last year, Chad wrote, “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.”
As the McQueen family mourns their loss, Barens concluded the statement by asking for privacy during this difficult time and encouraged those who wish to honor Chad’s memory to donate to Boys Republic, a cause close to the McQueen family’s heart.
