Chad McQueen, son of Hollywood icon Steve McQueen and known for his role in “The Karate Kid” films, has died at the age of 63. The actor and racing enthusiast passed away on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at his ranch in Palm Desert, California, due to organ failure following complications from a fall in 2020.
McQueen’s family announced his passing on social media, describing his life as a “remarkable journey” filled with love and dedication. The message focused on his passion for racing, which not only showcased his talent but also served as a way to honor his father’s legacy.
“He passed his passion, knowledge and dedication down to us and we will continue not only his legacy but our grandfathers as well,” the family stated in an Instagram post.
Born into Hollywood royalty as the son of Steve McQueen, Chad followed in his father’s footsteps, pursuing careers in both acting and auto racing.
Chad McQueen’s acting career spanned over two decades, with roles in 26 movies and TV shows. His first appearance on screen was as a skateboarder in the 1978 sports drama “Skateboard.” Throughout his career, he starred in various films, including “New York Cop,” “Martial Law,” and “Red Line.”
However, it was his role as Dutch in “The Karate Kid” (1984) and “The Karate Kid Part II” (1986) that brought him widespread recognition. In these films, McQueen’s character gave Ralph Macchio’s Daniel LaRusso a hard time, contributing to the franchise’s enduring popularity.
While acting was a significant part of his life, McQueen’s true passion lay in auto racing, a love he inherited from his father. He began his racing career at the tender age of 10, winning his first race in a children-only Le Mans event created on the set of his father’s 1971 film “Le Mans.”
As he grew older, McQueen pursued professional racing, participating in events in the Sports Car Club of America series. His racing career, however, came to an abrupt end in 2006 following a crash at Daytona International Speedway.
Despite the setback, McQueen’s love for racing never waned. He founded McQueen Racing, a company dedicated to developing high-performance cars and motorcycles. The company, now run by his children Chase and Madison, continues to carry on his legacy in the automotive world.
Throughout his life, Chad McQueen worked to preserve and continue his father’s legacy. He produced two documentaries about his famous father: “I Am Steve McQueen” and “Steve McQueen: The Man & Le Mans.” These projects allowed him to share his unique perspective on the Hollywood legend with the world.
McQueen is survived by his mother, Neile Adams, his second wife, Jeanie, and his children Chase, Madison, and Steven. His son Steven has followed the family tradition, making a name for himself as an actor known for his work on “The Vampire Diaries” and its spinoff “Legacies.”
The McQueen family has requested privacy as they navigate this difficult time and remember Chad’s extraordinary life. They have suggested that those wishing to honor his memory can make a donation to Boys Republic, an organization that provides support and a home for disadvantaged children.
