Chad McQueen, ‘Karate Kid’ star and son of Steve McQueen, dies at 63 – National
Chad McQueen, an actor known for his performances in the Karate Kid films and the son of the late actor and racing driver Steve McQueendied. He was 63 years old.
McQueen’s attorney and friend Arthur H. Barens confirmed to The Associated Press that he died Wednesday. The cause of death has not been released. His wife Jeanie and children Chase and Madison shared a statement on Instagram Thursday afternoon from McQueen’s verified account, announcing the news of his death with “heavy hearts.”
“His remarkable journey as a loving father to us, along with his unwavering commitment to our mother, perfectly exemplifies a life filled with love and dedication. His passion for racing not only showcased his exceptional talent, but also served to honor his father’s legacy, a testament to the values instilled in him,” the statement read.
“He passed on to us his passion, knowledge and dedication and we will continue not only his legacy but also that of our grandfathers,” the statement continued.
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The family has asked for privacy as they “remember and celebrate her extraordinary life.”
McQueen followed in his father’s footsteps, pursuing a career as both an actor and a race car driver. He became famous for his role as Dutch, the antagonist in the 1984 film The Karate Kidand its sequel two years later.
Although he starred in several films after the hit action franchise, including New York Police Officer, The wasters And Red lineHe then focused more on racing than on movies and eventually founded McQueen Racing, a company that creates custom cars, motorcycles and accessories. His son Chase, who also races, and his daughter Madison now run the company.
“I didn’t find acting fun anymore,” McQueen told The Associated Press in a 2005 interview. “So I decided to commit myself fully to racing.”
McQueen raced professionally for years, competing in the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 24 Hours of Daytona before suffering a series of driving injuries.
His work with McQueen Racing was intended to preserve and perpetuate his father’s legacy. McQueen also produced two documentaries about his father: I am Steve McQueen And Steve McQueen: The Man and Le Mans.
McQueen was the only son of his father and mother, Neile Toffel. He had a sister, Terry, who died of respiratory failure at the age of 38 in 1998. He is survived by his wife Jeanie and three children, Chase, Madison and Steven, who is an actor best known for Vampire Diaries.
© 2024 The Canadian Press
