Chad McQueen, a film actor and racing aficionado best known for his role in “The Karate Kid” and as the son of Hollywood legend Steve McQueen, died on September 11, 2024 at the age of 63. His death occurred at his Palm Desert, California ranch due to organ failure, a complication of a fall he had in 2020.

The McQueen family announced his death on social media, praising his life as a “remarkable journey” full of dedication and love. They emphasized his love for racing, which not only showcased his abilities but also honored the legacy of his father.

“He passed his passion, knowledge and dedication down to us and we will continue not only his legacy but our grandfathers as well,” the McQueen family shared on Instagram.

As the son of Steve McQueen, Chad was born into a Hollywood dynasty and followed his father’s path, launching careers in both acting and motor racing.

Chad’s acting career spanned over two decades, including roles in 26 films and television shows. His screen debut was as a skateboarder in the 1978 sports drama “Skateboard.” He also featured in various movies such as “New York Cop,” “Martial Law,” and “Red Line.”

However, it was his portrayal of Dutch in “The Karate Kid” (1984) and “The Karate Kid Part II” (1986) that earned him broad recognition. In these films, McQueen’s character played a significant role in the franchise’s ongoing appeal by consistently challenging Ralph Macchio’s Daniel LaRusso.

Despite his successful acting career, Chad McQueen’s true love was auto racing, a passion he inherited from his father. He started racing at the young age of 10, winning his first race in a children-only Le Mans event, which was organized on the set of his father’s 1971 film “Le Mans.”

As he matured, McQueen pursued professional racing, competing in the Sports Car Club of America series. However, his racing career ended abruptly in 2006 due to a crash at the Daytona International Speedway.

Despite this setback, McQueen’s passion for racing remained strong. He founded McQueen Racing, a company focused on developing high-performance vehicles. Today, his children, Chase and Madison, run the company, continuing their father’s legacy in the automotive industry.

Throughout his life, Chad McQueen made efforts to uphold and further his father’s legacy. He produced two documentaries about his father, “I Am Steve McQueen” and “Steve McQueen: The Man & Le Mans,” sharing his unique insights into the life of the Hollywood icon.

McQueen is survived by his mother, Neile Adams, his second wife, Jeanie, and his children Chase, Madison, and Steven. His son Steven has continued the family tradition, establishing himself as an actor known for his roles in “The Vampire Diaries” and its spinoff “Legacies.”

The McQueen family has asked for privacy during this challenging time as they mourn Chad’s loss and celebrate his extraordinary life. They suggest that those who wish to pay tribute to his memory can donate to Boys Republic, an organization that offers support and housing for disadvantaged children.