'The Karate Kid' actor and son of Steve was 63
Chad McQueen, son of legendary fellow Hollywood actor Steve McQueen, has died. He was 63 years old.
Chad McQueen's family announced his death on social media Wednesday, calling his life a “remarkable journey.”
“He passed on his passion, knowledge and dedication to us and we will not only carry on his legacy, but our grandfathers,” they captioned an Instagram photo of a classic McQueen convertible on his verified account.
McQueen died Wednesday, his lawyer Arthur Barens confirmed to The Associated Press. The cause of death was not shared.
McQueen is best known for his role as Dutch in 1984's “The Karate Kid” and its sequel, 1986's “The Karate Kid Part II.”
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The family asked for privacy as they “navigate this difficult time and … as we remember and celebrate his extraordinary life.”
The Los Angeles-born actor took up racecar driving in later years, founding McQueen Racing. He stopped racing in the mid-2000s after suffering a serious injury.
“His passion for running 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,” his family wrote.
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McQueen was also known for playing Darren Braniff opposite Gary Daniels in the 1993 action film “Firepower”. He has also served as an executive producer on several films, including two Steve McQueen documentaries: “I Am Steve McQueen” and “Steve McQueen: The Man and Le Mans.”
McQueen was one of two children and the only son of father and famous film antihero Steve McQueen, known as the “King of Cool”. Steve McQueen, a racing driver, died in 1980 aged 50.
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The actor is survived by three children – Steven, Chase and Madison – and wife Ginny Galbraith.
Steven McQueen followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather and is best known for his role as Jeremy Gilbert in “The Vampire Diaries.”