Chad McQueen, son of Hollywood icon Steve McQueen, has died at the age of 63.
Arthur H. Barens, McQueen’s attorney, confirmed the news to Fox News Digital in a statement on Thursday.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Chad McQueen, son of acclaimed actor Steve McQueen. In 2020, Chad suffered an injury from which he never fully recovered,” Barens wrote.
Born on December 28, 1960, McQueen is probably best known for his role as Dutch, one of the thugs in the original Karate Kid and its sequel, Karate Kid II.
Chad McQueen in The Karate Kid (Sony Pictures Entertainment)
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He also appeared in films such as “New York Cop” and “Red Line,” and according to Variety, there were plans for him to reprise his role in “The Karate Kid” in the Netflix spin-off “Cobra Kai,” but those plans never came to fruition.
Outside of acting, McQueen, like his famous father, focused on car racing.
McQueen also pursued a career as a racing driver and, like his late father Steve McQueen, was a car enthusiast. (Getty Images)
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Chad McQueen, son of acclaimed actor Steve McQueen. In 2020, Chad suffered an injury from which he never fully recovered.”
“His passion for racing not only highlighted his exceptional talent, but was also a way to honor his father’s legacy, a testament to the values instilled in him. He passed on his passion, knowledge and dedication to his family’s legacy to his children, Chase and Madison, who will continue to write the McQueen story with Renaissance Licensing,” Barens said in the statement.
Variety reported that Chad has competed in races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 12 Hours of Sebring. He also founded McQueen Racing in 2010. According to the company’s website, McQueen’s children Chase and Madison have taken over as its directors.
McQueen, seated, with his wife Jeannie McQueen, his mother Neile Adams McQueen, his son Chase and his daughter Madison at Madison’s baby shower in 2023. (David Crotty/Getty Images)
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“Together, Chase and Madison form a dynamic team that upholds their father’s legacy while bringing their own passion for the fun of racing. Their commitment to excellence and relentless pursuit of pushing the boundaries of performance and design have placed McQueen Racing at the forefront of the industry,” McQueen Racing’s website states.
“Chad’s remarkable journey as a loving father to Chase and Madison and his unwavering commitment to Jeanie were true examples of a life of love and devotion. He also leaves behind his mother, Neile Adams, a well-known Broadway performer, dancer and singer,” Barens’ statement said.
Chad McQueen is also the father of “Vampire Diaries” and “Chicago Fire” star Steven R. McQueen from a previous marriage.
McQueen with his mother Neile Adams, Steve McQueen’s first wife. (David Crotty/Getty Images)
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On social media, McQueen frequently posted tributes to his father, who died of cancer in 1980.
“Happy Father’s Day to the best dad I could have ever asked for! Thank you for being my guardian angel. I promise to tell your story the way you want it because no one knew you like I did,” he wrote last year.
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“As the family goes through this difficult time, we respectfully request privacy as they remember and celebrate Chad’s extraordinary life,” Barens added in his statement, urging people to donate to Boys Republic.
Larry Fink of Fox News Digital contributed to this report
