“The Karate Kid” star and son of Steve McQueen, Chad McQueen, has died. He was 63 years old.
He died of organ failure at his Palm Desert, Calif., ranch on Wednesday, Chad’s longtime attorney Arthur Barens confirmed to TMZ, saying he was “a one of a kind guy and will be missed.”
He died while surrounded by his wife Jeanie and his children Chase and Madison, Barens revealed.
Chad suffered an injury years prior that caused his progressive organ failure.
Known for his role in the famous franchise, Chad played Dutch in the original 1984 film and reprised his role in the 1986 sequel “The Karate Kid II.”
While he was rumored to be reprising his role in Netflix’s “Karate Kid” series “Cobra Kai,” his attorney revealed he didn’t join the series stars for the show’s final season.
He also starred in the 1993 film, “Firepower.”
When he wasn’t starring in Hollywood films, he competed in various racing competitions including the Baja 1000 and Motocross.
At age 12, he won the World Mini Grand Prix.
In a statement to Variety, his family said, “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our father, Chad McQueen. His remarkable journey as a loving father to us, along with his unwavering commitment to our mother, truly exemplified a life filled with love and dedication.”
“His passion for racing not only highlighted his exceptional talent but also served as a way to honor his father’s legacy, a testament to the values instilled in him.”
“He passed his passion, knowledge and dedication down to us, and we will continue not only his legacy but our grandfather’s as well. As a family, we need to navigate this difficult time, and we kindly ask for privacy as we remember and celebrate his extraordinary life,” the statement closed.
