Shocking Loss: ‘Karate Kid’ Star Chad McQueen, Son of Hollywood Legend Steve McQueen, Dead at 63!

Chad McQueen, a well-known actor, and racing enthusiast, recognized for his roles in the “Karate Kid” series during the 1980s and as the son of the late actor and race car driver Steve McQueen, has passed away at the age of 63.

His death was confirmed on Wednesday by his attorney and close friend, Arthur H. Barens. The cause of his death was not revealed. His wife, Jeanie, and his children, Chase and Madison, posted a statement on McQueen’s official Instagram account on Thursday afternoon, expressing their deep sorrow over his passing.

The statement conveyed, “His extraordinary journey as a dedicated father and his steadfast commitment to our mother truly showcased a life full of love and dedication. His deep enthusiasm for racing not only demonstrated his remarkable talent, but also served to honor the legacy of his father, reflecting the values that were instilled in him.”

The statement further read, “He passed on his passion, wisdom, and commitment to us and we promise to carry forward not just his legacy but also our grandfather’s.”

The family has asked for privacy as they “commemorate and celebrate his remarkable life.”

McQueen followed his father’s path, embracing both acting and race car driving. He gained fame for his role as Dutch, an antagonist in 1984’s “The Karate Kid,” and its sequel in 1986.

McQueen starred in various films after the popular action franchise, including “New York Cop,” “Squanderers,” and “Red Line.” However, he found more joy in racing than acting, which led him to establish McQueen Racing, a company specializing in custom cars, motorcycles, and accessories. His son Chase, also a racer, and his daughter Madison, currently manage the company.

In a 2005 interview with the Associated Press, McQueen confessed, “I didn’t find acting fun anymore. So, I decided to give racing my wholehearted commitment.” His acting career ended in 2001.

McQueen raced professionally for several years, participating in high-profile races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 24 Hours of Daytona. However, a string of injuries while racing, culminating in a 2007 accident, brought his driving career to an end.

His venture, McQueen Racing, was intended to preserve and continue his father’s legacy. McQueen also produced two documentaries about his father: “I Am Steve McQueen” and “Steve McQueen: The Man & Le Mans.”

McQueen was the only son of his parents, Steve McQueen and Neile Toffel. He had one sister, Terry, who passed away in 1998 due to respiratory failure at the age of 38. He is survived by his wife and three children, Chase, Madison, and Steven, who is a renowned actor best known for his role in “The Vampire Diaries.”

This article is written by Huamani for the Associated Press.