Karate Kid star Chad McQueen passes away at 63
Chad McQueen, ‘Karate Kid’ star and son of Steve McQueen, dead at 63
Actor Chad McQueen, the son of Hollywood icon Steve McQueen, has passed away at the age of 63.
Chad McQueen gained prominence in 1984 for his role as Dutch in the popular film “The Karate Kid,” where he portrayed the antagonist to Ralph Macchio’s lead character. His attorney, Arthur H. Barens, confirmed that McQueen died on Wednesday.
Like his father, Chad McQueen ventured into acting and motor racing. His wife, Jeanie Galbraith, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram with their children, Chase and Madison. The family announced his passing with deep sorrow, highlighting his role as a devoted father and his dedication to both family and racing. They praised his commitment to honoring his father’s legacy and passing down his passion and values.
McQueen is also survived by his son from a previous relationship, Steven R. McQueen, an actor known for his role in “The Vampire Diaries.”
In addition to his role in “The Karate Kid,” McQueen reprised his character in the 1986 sequel and appeared in several other films. He also produced two documentaries about his father: “I Am Steve McQueen” in 2014 and “Steve McQueen: The Man & Le Mans” the following year.
Steve McQueen, who became famous in the 1960s with films like “The Magnificent Seven” and “The Great Escape,” passed away in Mexico in 1980 at the age of 50, following surgery to remove a tumor.
Chad McQueen, following in his father’s footsteps, pursued a career in professional racing, competing in events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 24 Hours of Daytona. He later founded McQueen Racing in 2010 with his children, creating custom cars and motorcycles and collaborating with the film industry.
In a 2005 interview, McQueen expressed his shift in focus from acting to racing, stating, “I didn’t find acting fun anymore, so I decided to give racing a total commitment.”
Chase McQueen paid tribute on Instagram, finding comfort in the thought of his father being reunited with his own father and sister. Jon Hurwitz, a creator of the “Karate Kid” revival series “Cobra Kai,” also honored McQueen, describing him as a “Karate Kid legend” and expressing gratitude for the time spent with him. Hurwitz acknowledged that although McQueen was unable to return for the series, his character Dutch will always be remembered as a formidable presence in the Miyagiverse.
