Chad McQueen, the actor best known for playing Dutch in The Karate Kid films and son of iconic movie star Steve McQueen, has died at the age of 63. McQueen passed away on September 11 in Palm Springs, California, due to organ failure, his family confirmed in an announcement the following day.
Born on December 28, 1960, McQueen followed in his father’s footsteps both in acting and in a passion for auto racing. He first gained recognition as the menacing Cobra Kai student Dutch in The Karate Kid (1984) and its sequel The Karate Kid Part II (1986). Though producers of the popular Cobra Kai series expressed interest in his return, McQueen did not reprise his role.
Aside from his acting career, McQueen had a deep love for racing. He founded McQueen Racing in 2010 and competed in various events, but a severe crash at Daytona in 2006 ended his professional racing career. Despite this, his company continued to thrive, contributing to tributes and projects honoring his father, Steve McQueen.
Chad McQueen is survived by his wife, Jeanie Galbraith, their two children, and his son, actor Steven R. McQueen, from a previous marriage. He leaves behind a legacy in both film and motorsports, much like his legendary father.
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