“Karate Kid” actor Chad McQueen, who is the son of late Hollywood legend Steve McQueen, died of organ failure on Wednesday at the age of 63. McQueen’s lawyer, Arthur H. Barens, confirmed the news of his passing to Fox News Digital is an emotional statement. Barens announced, “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Chad McQueen.” He further revealed that the actor’s death was linked to an injury he sustained in 2020. The deceased’s family have also released a statement on Instagram, announcing the great loss.
‘Karate Kid’ actor Chad McQueen never fully recovered from 2020 injury
Chad McQueen sustained an injury from a fall in 2020 “from which he never fully recovered,” stated Arthur H. Barens. McQueen’s longtime friend and attorney confirmed that the 63-year-old died on September 11 at his Palm Desert ranch. He is survived by his second wife, Jeanie, sons Steven R. McQueen (known for his role in The Vampire Diaries) and Chase McQueen, and daughter Madison McQueen.
His children and wife also released a statement on Instagram to announce their loss. In a post, they recounted McQueen’s “remarkable journey as a loving father” and “his unwavering commitment to our mother.” The post highlighted the actor’s “exceptional talent” that also honored “his father’s legacy.” The children believe their loving father “passed his passion, knowledge, and dedication down to them” and that they wish to carry on his legacy as well as “our grandfathers.” Jeanie, Chase, and Madison signed off the note with “heartfelt gratitude” and asked for privacy “as we remember and celebrate his extraordinary life.”
Chad McQueen was perhaps most renowned for playing the antagonist in the classic teen movie “The Karate Kid.” McQueen played the role of Dutch, a Cobra Kai bully, in the first film in 1984 and returned for “The Karate Kid Part II” in 1986. His other prominent films include a few Dick Wolf-written blockbusters, such as “Skateboard,” “Martial Law,” “New York Cop,” “Death Ring,” and “Red Line.”
Besides his acclaimed acting career, Chad McQueen, also an auto enthusiast like his father, founded McQueen Racing in 2010. His children Chase and Madison run the company, which develops high-performance cars and motorcycles.
