Chad McQueen, the son of iconic Hollywood actor Steve McQueen, has passed away at the age of 63.
His family shared the news of his death on social media Wednesday, describing his life as a “remarkable journey.”
“He passed his passion, knowledge, and dedication down to us, and we will continue not only his legacy but our grandfather’s as well,” the family wrote in a caption accompanying an Instagram photo of McQueen in a classic convertible on his verified account.
McQueen’s death was confirmed on Wednesday by his lawyer, Arthur Barens. However, the cause of death has not been disclosed.
Chad McQueen was widely recognized for his portrayal of Dutch in the 1984 film The Karate Kid and its 1986 sequel, The Karate Kid Part II.
In a statement, the family requested privacy as they “go through this difficult time and… remember and celebrate his extraordinary life.”
Born in Los Angeles, McQueen turned to racecar driving later in life and founded McQueen Racing. He retired from the sport in the mid-2000s after sustaining serious injuries.
Chad McQueen attended the U.S. premiere of Steve McQueen: The Man & Le Mans at Laemmle NoHo 7 in North Hollywood, California, on November 11, 2015.
“His passion for racing not only showcased his incredible talent but also honored his father’s legacy, reflecting the values he had inherited,” his family said in a statement.
McQueen was also known for his role as Darren Braniff in the 1993 action film Firepower, alongside Gary Daniels.
Additionally, he worked as an executive producer on several films, including two documentaries about his father: I Am Steve McQueen and Steve McQueen: The Man & Le Mans.
Chad McQueen was one of two children and the only son of Steve McQueen, the legendary actor often referred to as the “King of Cool.” Steve McQueen, who also had a passion for racing, passed away in 1980 at the age of 50.
The actor is survived by his three children—Steven, Chase, and Madison—and his wife, Jeanie Galbraith.
Following in the family tradition, Steven McQueen has made his own mark in the acting world, best known for his role as Jeremy Gilbert in The Vampire Diaries.
