Chad McQueen, the son of legendary actor Steve McQueen, has passed away at the age of 63. His family shared the news on Instagram, expressing their grief and remembering his dedication as a father, husband, and passionate racer.
“With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of our beloved father. His love for us and his unwavering commitment to our mother truly defined his life. His passion for racing honored his father’s legacy and became a part of our own family values,” the statement read.
The family requested privacy as they remember and celebrate Chad’s life, though no details about his cause of death were revealed.
Chad McQueen followed in his father’s footsteps, both in acting and racing. He was best known for his role as Dutch, the villain in The Karate Kid (1984) and its sequel, but later shifted his focus to racing. He starred in several films, including New York Cop, Squanderers, and Red Line, but eventually found more joy behind the wheel than on screen.
In 2005, McQueen shared with the Associated Press, “I didn’t find acting fun anymore, so I decided to give racing my full attention.” He raced professionally in events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 24 Hours of Daytona, though his career was cut short due to injuries.
In addition to racing, Chad founded McQueen Racing, a company that creates custom cars, motorcycles, and accessories. His son, Chase, and daughter, Madison, now run the business, continuing the legacy of both Chad and his father, Steve McQueen.
Chad also produced two documentaries about his father: I Am Steve McQueen and Steve McQueen: The Man & Le Mans, further preserving his father’s memory.
He is survived by his wife, Jeanie, and their three children, Chase, Madison, and Steven. Steven is also an actor, best known for his role in The Vampire Diaries.