Chad McQueen, ‘The Karate Kid’ Star and Steve McQueen’s Son, Dies at 63
Chad McQueen, Legendary Actor and Racer, Passes Away at 63
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Chad McQueen, actor, professional race car driver, and son of the legendary Steve McQueen. Chad, best known for his role as “Dutch” in the iconic The Karate Kid films, died on Wednesday in Palm Springs at the age of 63.
Chad’s family—his wife Jeanie, and his children Chase, Madison, and Steven—released a heartfelt statement:
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our father, Chad McQueen. 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.”
Chad’s love for his family was the cornerstone on his life. His passion for cars, inherited from his father, extended well beyond the racetrack. He was not just an actor and racer, but a teacher, sharing his knowledge and drive with his children. The family expressed their intention to continue both Chad’s and his father’s legacies with love and care.
A Life on the Screen and the Racetrack
Chad McQueen’s portrayal of “Dutch,” one of the Cobra Kai members in The Karate Kid (1984) and its sequel The Karate Kid Part II (1986), left an indelible mark on ’80s pop culture. Known for his menacing character, Dutch’s presence in the movies made him an unforgettable antagonist in the life of Daniel LaRusso. Fans of the Cobra Kai TV series may recall that Dutch was mentioned as serving time in prison, a nod to McQueen’s character, though he never appeared on the show due to scheduling conflicts.
Beyond his acting career, Chad was passionate about auto racing, following closely in his father’s footsteps. He competed in prestigious events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 12 Hours of Sebring. His company, McQueen Racing, focused on developing high-performance vehicles, solidifying his standing as a respected figure in the motorsports world. His love for racing was only briefly interrupted by a near-fatal accident in 2006 while practicing for the Rolex 24 at Daytona International Speedway. Although the crash marked the end of his professional racing career, Chad remained dedicated to motorsports through McQueen Racing and other ventures.
A Family Legacy of Love and Dedication
Born in Los Angeles on December 28, 1960, and raised in Malibu, Chad McQueen embodied both Hollywood charm and racing grit. Though his on-screen career wasn’t as long as his father’s, Chad’s contributions to film and racing left an impact. His son, Steven, has continued the family’s acting legacy, most notably for his role in The Vampire Diaries.
Chad McQueen’s life was a testament to passion, family, and resilience. His warmth, dedication, and drive touched the lives of many, and his legacy will live on through his children and the countless fans who admired him.
Our thoughts are with the McQueen family during this difficult time. Chad’s extraordinary life—both on screen and behind the wheel—will be remembered fondly by all who knew and loved him.
Rest in peace, Chad McQueen (1960-2024).
The McQueen family has requested privacy as they grieve and celebrate Chad’s life.
