Chad McQueen, Son of Iconic Actor Steve McQueen, Passes Away at 63
Chad McQueen, the actor and producer best known for his role as “Dutch” in The Karate Kid series and the son of legendary actor Steve McQueen, has died at the age of 63. His family confirmed the news on Thursday, though no cause of death has yet been revealed.
In a heartfelt statement posted on Instagram, McQueen’s children Chase and Madison, along with his wife Jeanie, honored his life and legacy. “His remarkable journey as a loving father to us, along with his unwavering commitment to our mother, truly exemplified a life filled with love and dedication. His passion for racing not only highlighted his exceptional talent but also served as a way to honor his father’s legacy, a testament to the values instilled in him,” the family shared.
Born Chadwick Steven McQueen on December 28, 1960, he was the son of Steve McQueen, an action film star and race car driver, and Neile Adams, a performer. Chad’s early career followed in his father’s footsteps, with his acting debut in the 1978 sports drama Skateboard. His most iconic role came in 1984 when he portrayed “Dutch,” a member of the infamous Cobra Kai dojo in The Karate Kid. McQueen reprised the role in The Karate Kid Part II, and though he was offered a role in Netflix’s popular reboot Cobra Kai, he declined, making him the only original Cobra Kai member not to appear in the series.
Outside of acting, McQueen had a passion for auto racing, a nod to his father’s legacy as both an actor and race car driver. Chad’s career in racing, combined with his film work, solidified his connection to his father’s world. He was also an executive producer, most recently attached to Yucatan, a project that was originally conceived by his late father Steve McQueen and is currently in development at Netflix.
Chad McQueen is survived by his wife Jeanie, children Chase and Madison, and his son Steven R. McQueen, an actor known for roles in The Vampire Diaries and Chicago Fire.
The McQueen family legacy stretches far beyond Hollywood. Steve McQueen, who was not only a movie icon but also a U.S. Marine, once saved the lives of five fellow Marines during an Arctic exercise, he was also a student of martial arts legend Bruce Lee. Chad, in his own way, carried forward that spirit of courage and commitment, both through his personal life and career.
Chad McQueen will be deeply missed by family, friends, and fans who admired his dedication to honoring the McQueen legacy on and off the screen.
UCW Newswire
