Chad McQueen, “Karate Kid” villain and son of Steve McQueen, dies at 63
He was a member of Cobra Kai.
Chad McQueen, known for his performance in the 1984 movie The Karate Kid and its sequel, as well as his career in auto racing, has died at 63.
His wife Jeanie and two of his children, Chase and Madison, shared the sad news Thursday on social media, alongside two vintage photos of him.
"It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our father Chad McQueen," the statement began. "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 grandfathers 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."
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The son of iconic actor Steve McQueen and Neile Adams, the younger McQueen had just one credited acting role to his name when he portrayed Dutch, a member of the villainous Cobra Kai, the group that tormented Daniel LaRusso in the film. He also reprised the part in the 1986 film The Karate Kid Part II. While McQueen did not appear on the Netflix series Cobra Kai, it's noted that his character is in prison.
McQueen continued acting in movies such as 1993's Firepower, but his last TV or movie credit is in the 2001 title Fall: The Price of Silence, alongside Michael Madsen and Daniel Baldwin.
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Also known for his auto racing, McQueen was a competitor in big events and, in 2010, founder of the company McQueen Racing, which offers McQueen bikes and cars. According to the company's website, it's now run by Chase and Madison.
McQueen is also survived by son Steven R, McQueen, whose own credits include The Vampire Diaries.
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