Fans of the “Karate Kid” franchise have lost a loved one.
Actor Chad McQueen, the only son of the late Hollywood icon Steve McQueen and perhaps best known for playing Dutch in the “Karate Kid” films, has died. He was 63.
The actor, born Chadwick Steve McQueen, died Wednesday, September 11, at his home in Palm Desert, California, according to his longtime attorney, Arthur Berens. TMZ,
Barrens said McQueen's cause of death was organ failure. McQueen reportedly suffered an injury a few years ago that eventually led to organ failure.
McQueen was reportedly present when he died, along with his children, spouses, and Barrens.
The news of McQueen's death was confirmed by his wife Jenny and their two children – daughter Madison and son Chase – in a statement posted on Instagram.
“With heavy hearts we announce the passing of our father, Chad McQueen,” the family wrote in the caption of two black and white photos posted on Chad and Steve McQueen's Instagram accounts.
“His remarkable journey as a loving father to us, as well as his unwavering commitment to our mother, truly exemplifies a life filled with love and devotion. 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 he taught him.”
“He passed on his passion, knowledge and dedication to us and we will carry on not only his legacy but the legacy of our grandfathers as well,” the statement added. “As a family we must get through this difficult time and please ask for privacy as we remember and celebrate his extraordinary life.”
The post was signed, “With heartfelt gratitude, Jeannie, Chase and Madison.”
McQueen is also joined by “Vampire Diaries” actor Steven R. McQueen, 36, Chad's son from his first marriage to Stacey Totten. Chad and Totten married in 1987 and divorced in 1990.
In addition to playing Dutch in 1984's “The Karate Kid” and the 1986 sequel “The Karate Kid II,” McQueen was known for his roles in the 1993 film “Firepower” and 1998's “Surface to Air.”
A staunch defender of his father's legacy, McQueen produced two documentaries about the Hollywood legend, “I Am Steve McQueen” (2014) and “Steve McQueen: The Man and Le Mans” (2015).
Like his father, Chad also had a passion for auto racing.
Though the fans wanted to see McQueen reprise his role He ultimately declined to star as Dutch for the “Karate Kid” spinoff “Cobra Kai,” and instead opted to focus on his company, McQueen Racingwhich focuses on automotive projects, films and motorcycles.
According to reports, he nearly died in a car accident while practicing before the Rolex 24 race at Daytona International Speedway in 2006. DiversityThe accident ended his career as a professional driver. It is unclear whether the accident contributed to his health struggles in recent years.
The Post has contacted his attorney and manager for comment.
